Worldwide Golf October 2017

T H E M I D D L E E A S T ’ S N O .1 G O L F M A G A Z I N E

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COLUMN

GARY PLAYER Believes the Presidents Cup will become a worldwide success in the years to come.

Future is bright at Junior Presidents Cup The spirit in which the Junior Presidents Cup was played was as inspiring as the performances out on the course and I was very pleased to meet Dubaibased Indian Rayhan Thomas at Plainfield Country Club in New York.

aving had the pleasure of attending the Junior Presidents Cup with Jack Nicklaus as Honourary Captains for the International team and the USA team respectively, at Plainfield Country Club in New Jersey, it struck me what a great idea it was to stage this two-day event in the week of the Presidents Cup to promote junior golf.

With 12 players on each team, captained by Trevor Immelman for the International team, and David Toms for the USA, the standard of golf was remarkable. Eight different countries were represented in the International team with four South Africans in our side. It was good to meet the International Team on the opening morning on the course overlooking the Statue of Liberty, and particularly Rayhan Thomas, who I had heard so much about.

The USA team took a 5-1 lead in the first session but the Internationals rallied back to end the day 9-3 down. Despite the scoreline, the International team took the USA to the 17th and 18th on most of the matches. Dubai-based Rayhan, who is currently 31st on the World Amateur Golf Rankings, had an excellent first day. Playing alongside Garrick Higgo from South Africa in their fourball match against reigning America Junior Golf Association Rolex Junior Player of the Year, Noah Goodwin, and Cole Hammer, the young Indian birdied the 18th hole to halve the match.

In the Afternoon foursomes session Thomas and Higgo were again pitted against Goodwin and Hammer with the Americans winning 4&3. Our

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International Team put up a spirited fightback in the final day singles but despite their efforts the Americans emerged 14-10 winners. Atiruj Winaicharoenchai was our top performer, beating Noah Goodwin 3&1. South Africans Garrick Higgo and Luca Filippi both had convincing victories.

The undefeated Garrett Barber clinched the winning point for the Americans defeating Fred Lee of Australia. The scores may look a little one-sided but remember that up until the 1980s, The Ryder Cup was little more than a series of exhibition matches beause of the dominant Americans. Now it’s hugely competitive and has become one of the biggest sporting occasions on the world sporting calendar.

With the emergence of so many good youngsters from countries all over the world, I can see the Presidents Cup going the same way.

Even in these days of sky-high prize money, I found it hard to believe that one player could amass more than $15million in winnings in a single season. Justin Thomas has had five wins on the US PGA Tour this season and he clinched the FedExCup with a runnerup finish at the Tour Championship to beat Jordan Spieth to the title and the $10m bonus. Thomas won the CIMB Classic, the SBS Tournament of Champions, the Sony Open in Hawaii (where he shot a 59), the US PGA Championship for his first career Major, and the Dell Technologies Championship. He became the fourth player in history to win five PGA Tour titles in one season before reaching the age of 25, joining Jack Nicklaus, Tiger Woods, and Jordan Spieth.

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CONTENTS 14

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THE STARTER

PETE COWEN

DAVID HOWELL

RAFA CABRERA BELLO

This month Golf Club Milano comes into focus as it hosts the 74th staging of the Italian Open.

We look back at Nick Faldo’s World Match Play triumph of 1989 and dissect all the latest goings on in the game – inside and outside the ropes.

PGA Master Professional Pete Cowen talks about the changing of the guard at the top level and the prospects of increasing golf tourism in Dubai with a fully-fledged golfing academy.

As Justin Thomas basks in the glory of a US$10 million bonus for the winning the PGA Tour’s FedExCup series David Howell talks about the altogether different pressure of playing to keep your card.

2017 AAM Scottish Open champion Rafa Cabrera Bello reflects on the challenges involved in competing on both the PGA and European Tour, whilst also dealing with wedding preparations for later this year!

46 Matt Fitzpatrick All it took was a little change in practice and Matt Fitzpatrick was a winner on Tour again. The 23-year-old became the youngest Englishman to win four titles on the European Tour in Switzerland last month and we caught up with him as he looks to maintain his form ahead of his defence of the DP World Tour Championship at Jumeirah Golf Estates in November.

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FEATURE

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FEATURE

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TOUR NEWS

Nick Tarratt

Chris White

The European Tour announces a new event in Oman, the Luckiest Ball on Earth series nears its conclusion and the Emirates Golf Federation launches phase two of its schools initiative.

The European Tour’s man at the helm in the Middle East discusses the region’s growing importance to golf as news of the NBO Oman Golf Classic is unveiled.

With the MENA Tour heading to Jordan, we speak Ayla Golf Club’s Director of Operations about the exciting times ahead for the Greg Norman designed layout in Aqaba.

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CONTENTS 80

FEATURE

Centurion Club The Centurion Club, which is around 20 miles north of London, hosts the GolfSixes event on the European Tour and is one of the great golfing facilities in the United Kingdom. We also get the lowdown on how the vision of a former Dubai Creek PGA Professional became a reality.

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Ras Al Khaimah Golf Challenge

Race to Dubai As the DP World Tour Championship approaches we keep an eye on who has made a move to qualify for the elite 60-man field in the recent events on the European Tour.

The Challenge Tour’s penultimate event takes place later this month.

Twelve months on from Jordan Smith’s victory we take a look at the ones to keep a close eye on.

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INSTRUCTION

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Hole more putts

Mark Jones demonstrates just why Aimpoint Express could be the technique to transform your putting game.

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Create the coil

Improve your swing fundamentals, power and fluency with this famous Pete Cowen drill that Stephen Deane rediscovers.

Road to Oman

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We track the movers and shakers as the conclusion of the Challenge Tour’s Road to Oman draws ever closer.

Coaching golf’s future

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Mongomo qualifier Three professionals booked their spot in the prestigious 3e Actuaries Open via our qualifier.

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Mike Bolt explains why you should look no further than the Trump IGC Dubai if you want your kids to have fun and prosper in the sport.

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EDITOR’S LETTER

Forget the X Factor it’s all about the J Factor

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ver the years I’ve been fortunate enough to have played with some of the greats of the game. Yet nowadays to stand out from the pack you need to have it all – including the mental side of the sport.

Ian Poulter has shown what can be achieved through mental strength but to compete against the likes of Jordan Spieth and Justin Thomas you need the full package. You can’t rely on merely being one of the longest off the tee, or among the best iron players, because the calibre of players coming through the ranks have the required hunger and full artillery to take charge from the old guard.

One such player I had the fortune of spending some time with last month at Ras Al Khaimah was Jordan Smith.

The cover feature we carried on Jordan provided a fascinating insight into how he’s managed to rocket up the World Rankings. Playing a friendly nine holes with him at Al Hamra Golf Club, the stage on which he secured the 2016 Road to Oman title, was a real eye opener to how these guys play the modern game.

I’m not exaggerating when I say he had five birdies on the bounce and two further chances just glanced the hole. I accept that it was a relaxed atmosphere and the course wasn’t tricked up like a U.S. Open, but all the same you can see why he’s 15th on the Race to Dubai and how his game would suit the Earth course at Jumeirah Golf Estates next month.

He’s long off the tee, tight with his wedges and can feel the shots he wants to play. This was highlighted on the 18th at Ras Al Khaimah where he had 290 to the pin, into a slight headwind. Fully expecting he would lay up, he reached for a three wood, saying: “I might get there if I

Playing with Jordan Smith at Al Hamra Golf Club showed me why rookies and first-time winners are dominating world golf.

step on this!” He made the front edge and smiled.

With the latest breed of talent coming through it does no harm if your first or surname name starts with ‘J’ - Jon Rahm, Justin Thomas, Jordan Spieth, and Dustin Johnson.

The other characteristic these guys share is their fearless approach to the game. Jordan Smith even admits that he prefers to just go for every shot, as that’s the only way he can visualise playing.

This makes for exciting viewing and explains why we are seeing so many first-time winners on Tour, including a rookie winning the Tour Championship on the PGA Tour.

In the Tiger Woods era, players feared seeing his name on the leaderboard, but now they aren’t intimated by any other name up there, they are just hungry for success and world ranking points.

The effect of wave after wave of endless new talent will reduce the length of the reign of the leading lights. In the past, many players would be competitive virtually to the point when they step into Senior Tour golf. Now, all that will soon change. Today’s big-name stars will struggle as the young talent continues to flow through year after year.

You only need to look at the names who are battling to keep their Tour cards for next season. Read David Howell’s column this month for an insight into the struggle to maintain playing status on Tour and Pete Cowen also talks about how the game has become more physical and how that is reducing the time-span players can compete for at the top level.

It’s a tough game for the majority of these guys and it’s only going to get tougher.

ISSUE No.196 OCTOBER 2017 • Published by: Worldwide Sporting Publications Ltd • Published in Dubai by: Prografix • PO Box 24677 • Dubai, UAE (Tel) +9714 340 3785 Editor-in-Chief: Mike Gallemore • Executive Editor: Gary Player • Editor: Alex Gallemore (alex@wspglobal.com) Publisher: Mike Gallemore (mike@wspglobal.com) • General Manager Dubai: Richard Bevan (rick@wspglobal.com) • Editors: Todd Staszko, Scott Grayston, Ashraf Ahmed • Production/Design Editor: Thameem Rayyan • Editorial Panel: Gary Player, Mike Gallemore, Alex Gallemore, Richard Bevan, Todd Staszko • Photography: Getty Images • June 2009 SSN 1- 46805671 • Approval UAE National Media Council: Ref.816 30/5/2007 Trade Licence No. 1/104375/15280 • Worldwide Golf specifies that post-press changes may occur to any information given in this publication and takes no responsibility for goods or services advertised

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THE COURSE F O C U S O N T H E N E X T B I G D E S T I N AT I O N O N T O U R

Golf Club Milano The Rolex Series touches down in Northern Italy for the 74th staging of the Italian Open

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ituated just a few miles north of Milan and set in the Parco di Monza, the Golf Club Milano is a perfectly tranquil getaway – apart from when the nearby Monza racetrack is hosting a meeting.

The course was designed in the early 20th century by Peter Gannon and Cecil Blandford and has matured so that towering trees line each fairway as they carve through what is a relatively flat terrain.

Over recent years the Italian Open has grown in stature and was rewarded earlier this year when it was announced as one of the eight Rolex Series events. With a prize-fund of $7m, the tournament is sure to attract a world-class field headed by Spanish sensation Jon Rahm.

The 22-year-old has already won one Rolex Series title – the Dubai Duty Free Irish Open hosted by The Rory Foundation – and he’s looking to add another to his growing collection of trophies.

“The Italian Open is one of the great events on the European Tour and one that you want to get your hands on," says Rahm. "The national Opens of Continental Europe are steeped in history and tradition. To win these events is really special. Winning the Irish Open was an amazing feeling, so hopefully I can play well in Milan and try to win another one."

Home favourite Francesco Molinari is the defending champion after winning his fifth European Tour title last year.

“Playing in Milan, we are going to get great crowds like we did last year. Hopefully, I will play some good golf and try to successffully defend my title.”

A birdie opportunity is waiting at the 556-yard par-5 opening hole while the other par-5s are also reachable in two blows.

Scoring should be good if the weather is kind, although the closing four par-4s provide a stern test with three of them measuring over 460 yards. ■

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STARTER

SPOTLIGHT O N TO UR

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HAOTONG

China's top-ranked player is ready to kick on after a stunning performance at The Open where a final round 63 propelled him to a third place finish and into the top twenty on the Race to Dubai rankings.

WHILE Li Haotong might not yet be a household name in his native China, he's been steadily making waves around the world with a fearless approach to the game and a positive outlook on the course.

Rarely seen without a beaming smile on his face, Haotong burst into the limelight in July with a third place finish at The Open, just a month after becoming the first player from China to make the cut in the US Open, at Erin Hills.

His seventh place finish at the Open de France, a Rolex Series event, saw him move up the Race to Dubai and his haul of almost 600,000 points at Royal Birkdale placed him just outside the top ten.

“It’s kind of a dream come true,” he said of his finish at The Open.

He finished 23rd on the Race to Dubai last year after his maiden win at the Volvo China Open and he's all set to record his best year with plenty of big events left to play for.

Ranked 65th in the world, Hoatong is currently the only Chinese player inside the top 250 and he's blazing a trail for the next generation of players to come from China.

Tenniel Chu, Vice Chairman of Mission Hills Group in southern China, saw Haotong’s talent first-hand when he saw the youngster practising in the off-season at his golf resort.

“The hard work he puts in and the way he dedicates himself to his game makes me believe he can win a Major,” said Chu.

PICTURE: Li Haotong is set for his career-best finish on the Race to Dubai.

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Not only did Rayhan Thomas have a rock alongside the 18th green at Dubai Creek named after him at the Dubai Creek Open, the defending champion only went and shot a course recordequalling 61 in the second round which included a record-breaking nine consecutive birdies.

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HITS Marc Leishman has revealed the secret of his recent success on the PGA Tour – mowing the lawn. The Aussie likes to go into what he calls his 'nothing box', a place for relieving stress and not thinking about golf. Leishman hits the lawn at least once every day and stated: "It's my favourite from of exercise.

I'm not a gym rat, at all."

Ai Miyazato bowed out from the professional game, retiring after 11 years on the LPGA Tour.

She was greeted just off the final green at the Evian Championship by Gary Player, who gave her a bunch of flowers. “That was the first time I met him,” Miyazato said. “It means a lot to me because it was a great surprise, a great moment and something I'll never forget.”

This year's Payne Stewart Award, given to the PGA Tour player who best embodies character, charity and sportsmanship, was given to former Open Champion Stewart Cink.

Jerry Kelly is enjoying life on the over-50s circuit. The three-time PGA Tour winner already has two titles to his name on the PGA Tour Champions having won the Boeing Classic in August and the Pacific Links Bear Mountain Championship last month.

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H A S A W E E K TO R E M E MB E R

Teeing it up

News, Facts and Figures from around the Tours

Day gives new BMW car to charity

Nordqvist wins second Major

Former World No.1 holes out to win a car but he donates it Jason Day's ace during the second round of the BMW Championship in Chicago was good news for both himself and the local Evans Scholars Foundation.

Tournament sponsors BMW vowed to give a donation of £100,000 to the foundation upon the event's first hole in one and Day backed up that donation by giving them the brand-new M760i, which retails at a cool $155,000, which he won for the hole in one. The two-stroke gain saw him sign for a 64 and he wound up finishing fourth at the event on 16-under-par.

Future Olympic sites offer golf continuity Paris and Los Angeles already renowned golf destinations The announcement that Paris and Los Angeles will host the 2024 and 2028 Olympic Games respectively will come as a relief to the International Golf Federation as two tried-and-tested venues already exist in the two cities. After the stress of building a new course in Rio and the controversy surrounding the course in Japan (2020) not allowing lady members until they were pressured into it, the events at Le Golf National in Paris and Riviera Country Club should run without a hitch.

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LPGA come under fire for wiping scores during round one and cutting the event to 54 holes Anna Nordqvist overcame American Brittany Altomare in terrible conditions to win the weather-affected Evian Championship in France to win her second career Major title. The tournament was cut to 54 holes after severe rain on the opening day and after two rounds Nordvist found herself five strokes back. She shot a superb 66 to finish alongside Altomare, who had also shot a 66, and then downed the American in heavy rain on the first play-off hole.

McIlroy heads home Becomes eighth player to win the FedExCup and then not qualify for Tour Championship the following year Rory McIlroy's action on the PGA Tour came to an abrupt end with a share of 58th place at the BMW Championship in Illinois last month.

The Ulsterman failed to progress to the Tour Championship with only the top 30 qualifying for the finale at East Lake.

In order to see some playing time, McIlroy made a late entry to the British Masters at Close House and will end his year at the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship at St Andrews.

STARTER

SPIN BACK – October 1989 The 1980s were a golden era for European Golf and the World Match Play Championship at Wentworth towards the end of every season was the perfect way for the big names to sign off on the season infront of huge galleries in London. Nick Faldo was victorious in 1989 – the same year he won the Masters for the first time.

The Englishman downed Seve Ballesteros in the Semi-Final before dispatching Ian Woosnam in the Final after a stunning 1-iron approach to the last set up an eagle.

He played the last seven holes in 7-under-par to win his first World Match Play Championship at the tenth attempt. He was never ahead in the final until the 36th hole and after the victory he donated his winnings to children’s charities.

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Faldo came back from 3 down through eight to defeat David Frost on the 38th hole – the second hole of suddendeath in fading sunlight in the Quarter-Final.

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COLUMN

PETE COWEN Believes that Dubai is the perfect golf hub for the highend Far East market

Life on Tour is getting tough at the top There’s a great chance Matt Fitzpatrick will win again this season and the young guns are setting a tough pace for the old guard on Tour.

att Fitzpatrick’s win in Switzerland last month was just what he needed to keep his record running of at least one win in each of his three years on the European Tour so far. He put his success at the Omega European Masters down to going back to basics with ‘two or three drills’ we do with the players.

Matt works mainly with Mike (Pete Cowen’s coaching colleague, Mike Walker) and they concentrated on widening his stance, which seemed to have done the trick. It’s a drill that gets the club in position early enough. He’s done that particular drill many times before but you don’t want to do drills too regularly or you lose the impact. We frequently go back to drills we’ve done with our players in the past.

Matt put in an impressive performance to beat Scott Hend at the third hole of a dramatic play-off and I think he’ll go on to have a good end to the season. I wouldn’t be surprised if he wins another event before the end of the year. Maybe he’ll hold on to his DP World Tour Championship title.

It’s great news for the Middle East and great news for the European Tour that Oman will host a full European Tour event early next year after hosting the National Bank of Oman Golf Classic and then the Grand Final of the Challenge Tour. It will work well with the players.

The weather’s good in Oman and I’m sure the players will play back-to-back tournaments, take a break and play the other two events. The players like the region and the events will get a decent field because there’s nowhere else to play if you’re not in the world top 50.

I’ve not made any progress on the Dubai golf academy front as yet. I suggested that they should put in an academy to cater for the Asian market. The guy who runs the tourist board in Hong Kong had a lesson

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with me at Wentworth recently and he’s all for it. The population is only 7 million in Hong Kong but they get 60 million visitors a year. He said he would be prepared to go to Dubai for a lesson along with many more from China. It would be certainly be worthwhile to promote a Dubai golf academy in Asia. If they had a hotel at JGE, that would be the perfect facility.

I’m sure there would be a steady flow of golf tourists who would choose to travel to Dubai from China if there was a facility that could cater for all their requirements.

The number of first time winners on the European Tour this year proves that there’s a changing of the guard taking place. The big names are gradually being phased out and the young brigade are taking over. The youngsters are fearless. Take Justin Thomas. He’s won five times this season to take the FedExCup. You can’t stop this transition. There are so many good young players coming through.

The problem with the big names who have ruled the Tours for so many years is that many of them are carrying long-term injuries. When you consider the number of balls they hit and the constant stress they put on their bodies, it’s not surprising that their careers are getting shorter.

Many of the leading players have been punching above their weight for most of their lives. Some players have the natural strength and physique to launch the ball off the tee some 320+yards without taking the strain out of their bodies. Others have to push themselves to the absolute limit – and beyond. You can’t do that week-in-week-out without causing increasing damage to your health. Like it or not, golf has become a young man’s game at professional Tour level.

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COLUMN

DAVID HOWELL It’s a long season and even longer for those battling to save their playing privileges.

Harsh reality at the bottom While the headlines focus on the success of Justin Thomas, spare a thought for those still scrapping to retain their Tour cards for next season – it’s a tough and often unforgiving fight.

nother star is upon us then. Justin Thomas has leapfrogged into the ‘star’ status category with his FedExCup win, five victories this season, including a Major, a score of 59 under his belt and still only 24 years old. The golf world has, all of sudden, bagged itself a handful of dominant players. Multiple season winners used to be a rare thing but not at the moment. Johnson, Matsuyama, Thomas, McIlroy, Day and Spieth are on top of the world – what a wonderful place to be.

As I watched the Tour Championship play out I couldn’t help but think about the other side of professional golf. At the top, the riches pour in. It’s smiles literally all the way to the bank. Watching these events you can see why people say, “$1.6 million in their pocket - not bad for a week’s work.” Of course, the sums are huge, but they are hard earned.

Over in Vilamoura at the Portugal Masters, on the same day that Justin Thomas collected his $10 million bonus, players were coming down the stretch with their livelihoods on the line. Marc Warren, 11 years on Tour, who has been staring down the barrel of losing his Tour card for a few weeks, pulled out the performance of his life in finishing second to guarantee his job for next year. To follow an eagle on 17 with a missed par putt on 18 would have been agonising. But as luck would have it, a poor drive from George Coetzee enabled Marc to take second place alone – enough to keep his job for next year.

One shot worse and he would not have made it.

Playing golf under this sort of pressure is no fun.

The difference in potential earnings from having a

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full Tour card to not having one at all is huge. This year, the final event that decides the fate of the guys at the bottom end takes place at Valderrama. Some will have the week of their lives and keep their card.

They will deserve their success for playing well in such circumstances. There is always pressure when you’re in contention to win a tournament, but pressure at the lower end is a totally different beast.

It’s pure fear which is to be avoided at all costs.

Someone will end that week in despair, maybe one shot shy from keeping their tour card. You’ve got to feel for that player. That’s the harsh reality of professional golf. You don’t get paid unless you perform well. You pay your own way around the world and you gamble on your own ability.

We hear and read all about the star players, but the better stories are often on those we don’t get to know – the journeyman pro who has battled to reach the Tour; or the player who had lost his game and come back to succeed; the guy who’s earning a good living when nobody ever gave him a chance or the player coming back from an injury he thought he would never get over.

Being on Tour is a success in itself. Thousands set out to make it but in Europe only 200 people each year manage it. Yet that level of success guarantees no financial reward. For the vast majority, it will have been stressful beyond most people’s limit. The next time you watch a tournament, take a moment to consider the plight of the player who could be lining up the most important shot of their lives - a putt to keep their job. Now isn’t that a good story?

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COLUMN

RAFA CABRERA BELLO is a JA Resorts & Hotels Ambassador.

Learning the ropes as a ‘global’ player Extensive travel is a fact of life for any tour player but playing a committed schedule on both the European Tour and the PGA Tour takes a different kind of stamina, both mental and physical.

’M looking forward to getting back on the European Tour for an exciting finish to the season leading up to the DP World Tour Championship. It’s been a new experience for me, playing on both tours (PGA and European) this season.

I’m one of the the only players fully committed to both tours with an extensive schedule on both. A lot of the leading European Tour players who are playing in the PGA Tour and based in America play four or five events to keep their card, but I’ve played about 16 or 17 and I haven’t even finished the season yet so it will end up being over 20 European Tour events including the Majors and World Golf Championships. I’m very proud of how I’ve performed this year.

It’s my first full year on the PGA Tour and I finished very well, playing the three FedEx Cup events at the end of the season and I was proud to get that far while splitting my time with the European Tour. It was my first taste of the FedEx Cup and the events were fantastic but it was a lot of pressure to put myself under at the end of the season as I’ve been traveling quite extensively so I was physically and mentally tired although still very motivated to try and play as well as I could.

Playing both tours requires a lot of stamina. I’m used to travelling a lot but this year has certainly been a challenge.

Trying to get as much rest as I can between events has been difficult, but my commitment to my physical fitness has certainly helped me on the way. On the road, I’ve been traveling with my fiancé Sofia and my manager Richard during this period and it’s been important to have some breaks together. For example, in Memphis we went to Elvis’ original home, Graceland!

We walked around there for an afternoon and it was nice to be able to do something else other than just seeing the golf course and your hotel room. After the US PGA Championship, Sofia and I went to California where we went surfing and relaxed on the beach for a week to recharge the batteries. Kelly Slater, the surfing icon who I’m honoured to call my friend, came down and

I

joined us and we had an afternoon coffee and a bite to eat with him and his girlfriend which was very nice. I try and break it up the best I can and I believe it’s going to be a learning process playing a ‘global’ schedule.

Adjusting to different time zones is half the battle for anyone who’s doing the amount of travelling that I’m doing. I just try to get adjusted to the new country’s time zone as quickly as possible and get committed into my routine which consists of working on my physical fitness and practising ahead of tournaments. I’m tired and jetlagged at times and that does affect my performance which is one of the challenges that come with being a global player, trying to perform at the top level whilst travelling around the world.

I’m not sure if I’ll do exactly the same schedule next year but I certainly want to maintain my European Tour Membership and my commitment to the tour. I enjoy the PGA Tour and love playing against the best players in the world, whether that be in Europe or in America. I’ll review my schedule at the end of the year because it is a Ryder Cup year so I think it’s important that I spend some valuable time in Europe. Somehow, I’m going to have to try and squeeze in my 15 events on the PGA Tour, which is the minimum number, and commit as many tournaments as I can to the European Tour so I can achieve my goal of playing another Ryder Cup for Europe.

I’ve also had the small matter of a wedding to plan this year, which has been an added challenge, but an exciting one and I’m really looking forward to it. Sofia and myself have been constantly planning it although I have to admit she’s done most of the work whilst accompanying me on tour. We are just going through the final preparations for our December wedding in the Canary Islands and it’s certainly been a welcome distraction.

We’re really looking forward to spending a few special days with our close friends and family and welcoming them all to a new chapter of our life together.

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Luckiest Ball on Earth Grand Final spots filling up Places in the field for the eagerly anticipated Luckiest Ball on Earth Grand Final, taking place later this month on the Fire course at Jumeirah Golf Estates, are filling up fast with around half of the qualifying events complete at the time of going to press.

A total of 22 qualifiers will have taken place at 21 clubs across the UAE with players aiming to book a spot in the October 22 Grand Final. The victor of that event will be handed a dream ticket to compete alongside the likes of defending champion Matt Fitzpatrick and 2016 Race to Dubai winner Henrik Stenson in the Rolex sponsored Pro-Am which takes place on the Earth course two days before the Race to Dubai’s seasonending DP World Tour Championship, Dubai gets underway at Jumeirah Golf Estates from Thursday 16 November to Sunday 19 November.

REMAINING EVENTS The Address Montgomerie Dubai

Dubai

6 OCT

Al Hamra Golf Club

Ras Al Khaimah

6 OCT

Al Zorah Golf Club

Ajman

6 OCT

Arabian Ranches Golf Club

Dubai

6 OCT

Al Ain Equestrian, Shooting & GC

Al Ain

6 OCT

Trump International

Dubai

6 OCT

Yas Links

Abu Dhabi 6 OCT

The Els Club

Dubai

Final call for volunteer marshals The DP World Tour Championship is known as one of the most well-loved sporting occasions in the UAE and you can play your part in its continuing success by signing up to work as a volunteer at the event. It’s is a unique opportunity for golf lovers to get up close to the action and enjoy a rewarding and memorable experience but there are only a few spots remaining so you need to be quick if this is of interest!

Interested parties should email: jengolfdxb@hotmail.com

7 OCT

Rayhan enjoys some time with the legendary Gary Player.

Learning curve for Rayhan at JNR presidents cup

Changes to the ‘Desert Swing’ as the Middle East gains a new European Tour event in Oman The European Tour’s ‘Desert Swing’ is to undergo significant changes next year as the Middle East welcomes a new event to the early season schedule in the form of the NBO Oman Golf Classic.

The new addition, which will be held at the stunning Greg Norman designed Almouj Golf in Muscat, is an ‘upgrade’ of the hugely successful NBO Golf Classic Grand Final, which has been the season-ender on the Challenge Tour since 2015 and was the penultimate event on the schedule in 2014.

The Abu Dhabi HSBC

Championship will occupy its usual spot in the calendar from January 18-21 but the Omega Dubai Desert Classic will now follow it directly from January 25-28. The NBO Oman Golf Classic will take place from February 15-18 with the Commercial Bank Qatar Masters, traditionally held right after the Abu Dhabi event, now being staged from February 25-28.

To find out more, read our exclusive interview with the European Tour’s Middle East Director Nick Tarratt starting page 36.

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Dubai’s very own rising starlet Rayhan Thomas enjoyed a wonderful learning experience when he joined the International Team in taking on the USA in the first Junior Presidents Cup at Plainfield Country Club last month.

The Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club member finished top of the International Rankings and his team captain, 2008 Masters champion Trevor Immelman, showed how highly he rates the 17 year old by sending him out first in the opening day fourballs alongside South Africa’s Garrick Higgo. Thomas repaid that faith with an excellent performance, capped by sinking a clutch birdie at the last to halve the match against US pair Noah Goodwin and Cole Hammer.

Goodwin and Trent Phillips got the upper hand in the afternoon foursomes with a 4&3 victory over Thomas and Higgo before the Dubai resident fell to an emphatic 7&6 reverse against Akshay Bhatia.

But at this stage in Thomas’s career every result is a good one as it’s all part of the learning experience, and to pull off some of the shots that he did, while competing in his first international team event while still getting to grips with playing golf in the US – something he’s only started doing this year – is something he can take great pride in.

One of the highlights also came when Thomas was able to spend some time soaking up the advice of ninetime Major champion and Worldwide Golf Executive Editor Gary Player.

TOUR NEWS

EGF kids golf initiative supported by DP World enters phase 2 The prospect of seeing a home-grown player from the United Arab Emirates making it on the world golfing stage is edging ever closer thanks to the ongoing success of a DP World funded Emirates Golf Federation (EGF) Arabic Schools Initiative which entered phase two with a launch event at Jumeirah Golf Estates last month.

The innovative programme, which is also supported by the European Tour, launched last year with the first phase seeing the Emirates Golf Federation with the assistance of Golf DXB, visiting six UAE schools to give ‘Golf Taster’ sessions to over 3,000 students. Fifty children were also treated to a visit to the European Tour’s season-ending tournament, the DP World Tour Championship at Jumeirah Golf Estates, where they had a ‘behind the scenes’ tour to get a taste of what is involved in running a world-class golf tournament.

During the introductory phase, 100 children became hooked enough on the sport to take up memberships at golf clubs across the region. The astounding influx of new young golfers prompted the EGF to create four Foundation Squads at Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club, Emirates Golf Club, The Track Meydan, Sharjah Golf & Shooting Club and Al Ain Equestrian, Shooting & Golf Club.

In addition to their ongoing development at their respective clubs, the Foundation Squads, made up of 40 children, along with the UAE National Squad, are to have access once a month to one of the very best training facilities in the world with DP World funded coaching sessions at the European Tour Performance Institute (ETPI) at Jumeirah Golf Estates. The ETPI at the famous Dubai venue is one of only two such facilities in the world and home to some of the most cutting-edge equipment available as well as a team of world-class coaches who will help the EGF achieve the goal of bringing the children in the Foundation Squads onto the UAE National Squad within 12 to 18 months.

Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem, DP World Group

“We are delighted to be able to support this major initiative and to play a part in the development of our UAE National Golf Teams.”

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Phase 2 of the EGF Arabic Schools Initiative was launched at the ETPI last month.

Chairman and CEO, said: “We are delighted to be able to support this major initiative and to play a part in the development of our UAE National Golf Teams.

Supporting grassroots golf is central to our involvement in the sport and something we care very passionately about. The growth of the game in the region is extremely important to us and giving local golfers access to facilities such as the world-renowned European Tour Performance Institute at Jumeirah Golf Estates offers them the opportunity to reach their complete potential.”

Adel Zarouni Emirates Golf Federation - Vice Chairman said: “With the support of DP World, the EGF has been able to see rapid growth at the grassroots level which is pushing the National Junior Development Program. With a successful EGF Arabic Schools Golf Initiative over the last year and a half, the EGF is excited to reach the next step of our programme by creating the UAE Foundation Squads. Again, with the passion and support from DP World devoted to the Foundation Squads, we are excited to see our young boys and girls enhance their golf game by using the European Tour Performance Institute at Jumeirah Golf Estates for elite training and player analysis.”

Nick Tarratt Director European Tour International Dubai Office, added: “The European Tour is delighted to be joining DP World in supporting this forwardthinking initiative which is a shining example of joined up thinking between stakeholders in the local golf community. Last year’s introductory phase was an overwhelming success, resulting in a huge influx of local school children taking up the sport of golf. It will be fascinating to see how the youngsters who have joined the Foundation Squads progress in the next phase of their development under the guidance of the EGF, the local golf clubs, and the wonderful coaches at the European Tour Performance Institute. Children are the key to the future of the game at all levels and initiatives like this are crucial in ensuring golf’s continued growth here in the UAE and around the world.”

Golf Package Located just outside of Jumeirah Golf Estates, home of the DP World Tour Championship, and within easy striking distance of The Els Club, the Ghaya Grand Hotel is the ultimate destination for your unforgettable golfing experience.

PACKAGE IS VALID DURING THE DP WORLD TOUR CHAMPIONSHIP 16-19 NOVEMBER 2017 AND INCLUDES: • Complimentary dry cleaning of 02 pieces of laundry daily per person • Buffet Breakfast Included • 30% off on all Spa Treatments • 20% off on all F&B out lets • Guaranteed early check in at 8am • Late check out until 4pm free of charge • Booking can be made on a 6pm free cancellation policy • Free Wi-Fi Internet access in the rooms

Deluxe room single occupancy AED 420/ double occupancy AED 500 Deluxe room half board - single occupancy AED 533/ double occupancy AED 616

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*Above prices exclude taxes and TD, Packages valid during the DP World Tour Championship 16th – 19th November 2017*

Available to book online now on the Ghaya Grand Hotel website.

IMPZ (Tecom), Dubai, UAE marketing@ghayagrandhotel.com www.ghayagrandhotel.com

The Top Sixty

Dubai-based Otaegui aiming for maiden DP World Tour Championship berth

Spaniard Adrian Otaegui gave his chances of earning a spot in the European Tour’s season-ending grand finale in Dubai a timely boost with his first win on Tour at the Saltire Energy Paul Lawrie Match Play in Germany. The 24-year-old, who lives in Dubai, defeated Marcel Siem in the final to earn 171,000 points and move from 58th to 41st in the Race to Dubai rankings. His season tally of 581,167 points puts him within touching distance of a debut at the DP World Tour Championship, Dubai, taking place at

Jumeirah Golf Estates from November 16-19. “This victory puts me in a good position in the Race to Dubai rankings which makes it easier to qualify over the next few tournaments,” said Otaegui. “I live in Dubai so to play the Earth course at Jumeriah Golf Estates will be a perfect way to end my season.” Runner-up Siem moved from 125th to 87th in the Race to Dubai while third-placed Johan Carlsson jumped from 109th to 92nd and both will be hoping for a few good finishes to move into the top sixty come November.

American Julian Suri (above) began the season on the Challenge Tour but after winning the Made in Denmark he earned an exemption on the European Tour. He is on the bubble at 63rd in the Race to Dubai at the time of writing.

Dubai resident Romain Wattel (above) took home 483,348 points for his win at the KLM Open and edges toward a maiden berth at the DP World Tour Championship.

The Frenchman moved up from 130th to 55th in the Race to Dubai.

Colossal Climb Big Move Matt Last year’s DP World Tour Championship winner Matthew Fitzpatrick gave his 21017 season a timely boost with his fourth European Tour title at the Omega European Masters.

Fitzpatrick, who finished sixth in last year’s Race to Dubai, moved up to 12th place with his win in Switzerland. Runner up Scott Hend virtually guaranteed his place in the field for the DP World Tour Championship, moving to 32nd.

Haydn Porteous (above) made a giant leap from 105th to 61st in the Race to Dubai thanks to his victory at the D+D REAL Czech Masters.

Registration for your FREE DP World Tour Championship tickets is now open: To register please visit: http://bit.ly/dpwtc17

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Lucas Bjerregaard clinched his first title at the Portugal Masters and catapulted into the top 50 in the Race to Dubai.

Prior to the week, Bjerregaard was ranked 114th but after securing a memorable fourstroke victory over Marc Warren, he moved up to 47th to give himself a chance of qualifying for the DP World Tour Championship.

Warren climbed from 173rd to 100th.

COME FOR THE TOURNAMENT STAY FOr A HOLIDAY Come to enjoy the Ras Al Khaimah Golf Challenge from 25th-28th October 2017.

The penultimate tournament of the 2017 European Challenge Tour at the spectacular, lagoon-wrapped Al Hamra Golf Club. Stay to discover the Emirate's rich culture, historical sites and natural vistas.

Make the most out of your ultimate golf staycation in Ras Al Khaimah.

• • • •

Stay + Play hotel packages Activities for children of all ages Several Food & Beverage options Entrance to the tournament is free of charge

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Road to Oman finale fast approaching Tapio Pulkkanen makes huge move after Kazakhstan Open triumph With only a handful of events left before the NBO Golf Classic Grand Final in November the Road to Oman rankings are starting to solidfy, with the top 15 earning their European Tour cards for 2018.

Tapio Pulkkanen roared to the top of the Road to Oman standings and assured himself of a berth on the European Tour next season after winning the lucrative Kazakhstan Open. The 27-year-old overcame American Chase Koepka in a three-hole play-off to take the spoils and move to 143,997 points in the seaon-long race, overtaking Aaron Rai in the process. Chase, brother of former Challenge Tour player and current US Open champion Brooks, moved up to fourth place on the rankings on 111,491 points. Pulkkanen had finished runner-up twice so far this year and was delighted to finally enter the winner’s circle. “It’s an unbelieveable feeling to have won one of the biggest events on the Challenge Tour,” said the Finn. “I think I was in control today. I made a couple of bogeys but I was playing really well. This result is good enough to take me to the European Tour and I am really glad to have achieved that here – it’s an awesome feeling to know I’ll be on the European Tour for next season.”

Julien Guerrier clinched his second title of the season at the Irish Challenge hosted by Mount Wolseley Hotel, Spa & Golf Resort to virtually assure himself of a berth on the European Tour next season. The Frenchman, who sealed the win on the same day as his compatriot Romain Wattel on the KLM Open, remains second on the Road to Oman but closed the gap on leader Aaron Rai to 19,000 points. Guerrier won the Hauts de France Golf Open in June and was the start of the show in Ireland, not dropping a shot in his final 48 holes as a final round 67 earned him a dominating six-stroke victory. “It’s the most consistent and steady I have ever played and it was great to finish in style with a birdie in front of the great Irish crowds – I’m very proud to win here and in this way,” said the 32-year-old.

An eagle at the last saw Oscar Lengden clinch the first Challenge Tour victory of his career at the Bridgestone Challenge and move into the top 20 on the Road to Oman.

Pedro Oriol took inspriation from a recent trip to Seve Ballesteros’ home as he won his first Challenge Tour title with a playoff win over Adrien Saddier at the Rolex Trophy. The Spaniard moved up to third on the Road to Oman after completing a final round 65 and then despatching Saddier on the first hole of the play-off. “It’s very special because last weekend I was in Seve’s house with his son,” said the 31 year old. “Javier is a great friend of mine and I was sleeping in his home, I went to the room with Seve’s golf clubs, and I took a lot of inspiration from that into this week.”

Birgir Hafthorsson clinched his first title on the Challenge Tour at the Cordon Golf Open and with it he moved up to 16th on the Road to Oman rankings.

A solid final round 67 saw Clement Sordet cruise to his third Challenge Tour title with a five-stroke victory at the inaugural Viking Challenge in Norway. The event was cut to 54 holes after heavy rain but that didn’t dampen Sordet’s form as he sealed a memorable victory and moved from 49th place to 14th on the Road to Oman.

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Tour News

World Round-Ups

As the European Tour's 2017 International Schedule heads towards its climax, plenty of Race to Dubai Points were swept up and qualification for the 2018 European Ryder Cup team also began in Denmark.

SUPERB SURI SEALS FIRST TITLE TO EARN AUTOMATIC EXEMPTION

Saltire Energy Paul Lawrie Match Play

OTAEGUI UPSETS SIEM ON HOME SOIL FOR FIRST TITLE

Adrian Otaegui won his first European Tour title in superb fashion, overturning Marcel Siem's lead to win 2&1 in the final of the Saltire Energy Paul Lawrie Match Play in Germany. Siem was three up at the turn in the final and was two up with five to play before the Spaniard produced a remarkable turnaround, making three birdies in succession to win on his 123rd start on Tour.

"It's very, very special to have my first European Tour title here at the Paul Lawrie Match Play," said Otaegui. "The way I played the back nine – being three down after nine holes – I played good golf. I had been playing well the whole week. I made a few mistakes as everybody does but I was very focused. I knew I could do it and the way I finished was just the perfect finish to the week."

American Julian Suri was calmness personified as he clinched his maiden European Tour title at the expense of David Horsey at the Made in Denmark.

In just his seventh start on Tour, Suri, who won the D+D REAL Czech Challenge in May, became the third American to win both on the Challenge Tour and the European Tour (following Peter Uihlein and Brooks Koepka) after shooting a final round 64 to win by four.

Suri earned his European Tour card through until 2019 as a result.

Made in Denmark

AUSSIE NORRIS WINS BY FOUR IN FIJI Jason Norris was another first-time winner on the European Tour after he fired a final-round 67 to win by four strokes at the Fiji International.

Early birdies on the front nine put the Australian in control and a level par back nine saw him finish the week on 14 under par ahead of Thailand's Jazz Janewattananond and Australian duo David McKenzie and James Marchesani.

Fiji International

"It's one that I've always wanted to win. I love playing this golf course, from the first ever year I came as an invite in 2014 it's one that has really stood out on my schedule and I always want to come back and play."

Omega European Masters

Matthew Fitzpatrick

D+D REAL CZECH MASTERS

PORTEOUS CZECHS IN TO CLAIM SECOND TOUR TITLE FITZPATRICK BACK TO WINNING WAYS Matthew Fitzpatrick picked up his first win since last year's DP World Tour Championship with a play-off win over Scott Hend at the Omega European Masters in Switzerland. The Englishman fired a final round 64 to finish level alongside the Australian on 14-under-par and then downed Hend, who was also runner-up in the event last year, on the third hole of the play-off.

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Hadyn Porteous came out on top after an engrossing final round battle with England's Lee Slattery to win his second European Tour title at the D+D REAL Czech Masters.

Porteous, who had recorded his first top ten of the season a week earlier in Denmark, shot a final round 69 to post a 13-under-par total and win by two. "It's been a really torrid time through the last eight, nine months but I've really started doing the right things and slowly, but surely the golf has got a little bit better," said Porteous.

WATTEL THE LATEST TO PICK UP MAIDEN TITLE

It took 186 events, but France's Romain Wattel is finally a European Tour winner after clinching the KLM Open with a one-stroke win over Canadian Austin Connelly. Despite coming into the event with littleto-no form, Wattel was in control down the stretch, getting up and down for par on the final hole for a final round 69, a 15-under-par total and his first career win. "I came into this tournament playing poorly, to be honest," said Wattel. "I was struggling with my game but I am happy with the way I played all week. It's been a very nice weekend.

I never thought about the score – I just tried to play my best."

KLM Open

US PGA Tour News

Portugal Masters

BJERREGAARD POUNCES IN PORTUGAL Denmark's Lucas Bjerregaard swooped to clinch his maiden European Tour title at the Portugal Masters after a stunning final round 65 saw him finish four clear of Scotland's Marc Warren. Bjerregaard, who entered the tournament battling to earn enough points to save his card for next year, was in fine form as he extended his one-stroke overnight lead with a flawless round.

Another FedExCup is in the books as the 2017 season came to a conclusion at the Tour Championship at East Lake, WWG takes a look at who's been stepping into the winner's circle on the PGA Tour

Henrik Stenson wins the Wyndham Championship ahead of young rookie Ollie Schniederjans (inset)

Dustin Johnson holds a his fourth piece of silverware in 2017 after winning the Northern Trust with a play-off victory over Jordan Spieth (inset).

Henrik Stenson closed the book on the regular PGA Tour season with a one shot win over Ollie Schniederjans at the Wyndham Championship, the final event before the FedExCup Play-Offs.

Stenson had been in good ballstriking form over summer and finally got it together on the greens to shoot rounds of 62-66-66-64 for a 22-under-par total for his first win since triumphing at The Open last year. The Play-Offs once again kicked off in the New York City area as Glen Oaks Club played host to The Northern Trust and Dustin Johnson came away with the spoils after downing Jordan Spieth in a play-off. The pair traded blows – and impressive clutch putts – down the stretch and a remarkable par save on the 18th in regulation saw Johnson go into sudden death with the momentum. He then launched a 340-yard drive over the lake to take the upper hand over Spieth, who took a more conservative line off the tee. Johnson stuck his wedge approach to four feet and made the putt for the win.

The Tour headed north to TPC Boston for the Dell Technologies Championship where Justin Thomas added a fifth title to his season with a composed victory. “I feel confident when I get in these situations like today, or like I did at the PGA, I feel like I can get it done,” Thomas said.

A third round 63 put Thomas in control and he held off Jordan Spieth with a closing 66 to win by three strokes from his compatriot

on 17-under-par. Australia's Marc Leishman was in contention but stumbled to post a one-under-par 70 and finish in third place.

After a week off on the schedule the PGA Tour headed west to Chicago for the prestigious BMW Championship and there was redemption for Marc Leishman as he cruised to a five-stroke victory over former champion Justin Rose at Conway Farms GC. Leishman opened with a 62 and was never caught as he completed a wireto-wire victory, finishing on 23-under-par.

With the top thirty on the FedExCup progressing the Tour Championship there was something of an upset as debutant Xander Schauffele won the tournament with runner-up Justin Thomas clinching the season-long FedExCup. Only 11 rookies had made it to East Lake since the inception of the FedExCup Play-Offs in 2007 and Schauffele's win was his second of an impressive debut year. Thomas put the exclamation point on his outstanding season, finishing first to deny close friend Jordan Spieth the FedExCup title and win the $10m bonus.

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Justin Thomas wins his fifth title of an impressive season at the Dell Technologies Championship at TPC Boston as Marc Leishman (inset) stumbles down the stretch.

Marc Leishman clinches the second title of his season with a wire-to-wire win at the BMW Championship with Justin Rose (inset) a distant second.

Below: Justin Thomas clinches this year's FedExCup after a stunning season – five victories on the PGA Tour including the US PGA Championship.

Top Class Golf

Returns To The UAE With Ras Al Khaimah 2017 Golf Challenge

Excitement is building as top class golf returns to the UAE this month with the second edition of the Ras Al Khaimah 2017 Golf Challenge. aking place at the stunning Al Hamra Golf Club from October 25-28, the event will see the pros locking horns in the penultimate event on the Challenge Tour calendar as they aim to end the season in the top 15 on the Road to Oman Rankings and gain promotion to the European Tour.

Something former Challenge Tour player Jordan Smith knows a thing or two about.

After winning the inaugural event last year, Smith went on to secure his first European Tour Card for the 2017 season and won his first Tour event at the Porsche European Open in July. The English ace has already sealed his place in the season-ending DP World Tour Championship, open only to the top 60 players in the Race to Dubai rankings (he’s currently 17th), after a terrific rookie campaign which has also seen him finish tied ninth in his first Major, the US PGA Championship.

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Jordan Smith made the headlines last year when he sealed the Ras Al Khaimah 2016 Golf Challenge.

“I might sound a bit biased as I won the Ras Al Khaimah 2016 Golf Challenge but I remember turning up and everything was just perfect,” said Smith, who was in RAK last month to promote the upcoming Challenge Tour tournament and played a round at Al Hamra GC with Worldwide Golf editor Alex Gallemore. “We stayed right next to the course on the beach and I really enjoyed my stay.

“I think the event has the potential to become the Grand Final of the Challenge Tour season as it is very similar to the setup at the NBO Golf Classic Grand Final in Oman. Al Hamra Golf Club has some great facilities and the course is definitely good enough.

“I’d had a very strong Challenge Tour season last year but winning in Ras Al Khaimah was the icing on the cake.

“Performing so consistently with so much on the line was a huge confidence boost and

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I’ve been fortunate enough to carry that form into my rookie season on the European Tour.

Everything is going well but there’s not a day that goes by where I don’t think how important my Ras Al Khaimah win was in getting me to where I am today. I’m only really at the start of my golf career – a bit like Ras Al Khaimah – and it’s going to be a long journey but that particular junction was a crucial point in my progression.”

With the world’s up-and-coming golf stars due to tee-off in the second Ras Al Khaimah Golf Challenge in a few week’s time, Smith believes Al Hamra Golf Club will prove a stern test for this year’s crop of emerging European Challenge Tour superstars.

“The Al Hamra course is in very good condition; you would never guess we’re at the tail-end of a scorching summer season in Ras Al Khaimah. It will be in perfect shape

FEATURE

by the time the guys touch down. If you can keep the ball straight off the tee and stay away from the lagoons, the course can be relatively straightforward, but with so much at stake in the season’s penultimate tournament it will definitely test the field - I have no doubts about that.”

The Challenge Tour class of 2017 includes Finland’s Tapio Pulkkanen who is currently top billing in the Road to Oman standings. With one Challenge Tour win under his belt at the recent Kazhakatan Open in addition to three more top tens including two runner-up finishes he will be hoping to add a second with a win in Ras Al Khaimah giving him a great chance of following in Smith’s footstep by not only sealing a

European Tour card, but doing so by topping the rankings.

Also on the hunt for glory is England’s Aaron Rai, who already has three wins to his name and has secured automatic promotion to the European Tour but is expected to play in RAK in a bid to top the Road to Oman Rankings.

Frenchman Julien Guerrier won his second title of the season in Ireland last month and is breathing down Rai’s neck in the Road to Oman knowing that a good showing in RAK and then Oman the following week, could be enough to see him crowned Challenge Tour Number One while England’s Ryan Evans, winner of the Turkish Airlines Challenge, will be another one to watch

“I remember turning up at the Ras Al Khaimah 2016 Golf Challenge and everything was just perfect. We stayed right next to the course on the beach and I really enjoyed my stay.”

Smith enjoyed his return to RAK last month for some well-deserved downtime.

Golden Ball Grand Final Beckons

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he hotly anticipated Golden Ball Grand Final is almost upon us and with most of the qualifiers complete (three still to be completed at time of going to press), 20 of the top amateur golfers in the region will head off to Al Hamra Golf Club in Ras Al Khaimah on Thursday October 5, 2017 for the seriesending event in their bid to seal Golden Ball glory.

The series has certainly been one to remember with local amateurs going toe to toe in an attempt to book a Grand Final ticket where they will compete for the chance to return to Al Hamra on October 24 to rub shoulders with the stars of the European Challenge Tour in the Ras Al Khaimah 2017 Golf Challenge Pro-Am. This year’s event has seen almost 500 (at time of going to press) keen golfers participating, with clubs across the region

As well as top glass golfing action, this year’s RAK Golf Challenge will offer activities for all the family to enjoy. Visitors to the event can stay in one of the nearby hotels in Al Hamra Village, which are offering great deals during the tournament, set along the pristine beaches and offering fantastic swimming pools, spas and facilities. While taking time out from the excitement on the greens, spectators can head down to the golf tournament fan village – branded the Adventure Zone. Here kids will find a climbing wall, trampolines and other activities from Adventure HQ, as well as a bouncy castle and face painting. A DJ car from Red Bull and a dedicated Octoberfest garden will be open from 16:00pm to 22:00pm from Thursday 26 to Saturday 28 October.

For more information on hotel offers and the fan village visit: rasalkhaimah.ae

holding qualifying tournaments for a ‘money can’t buy’ opportunity to compete in the Challenge Tour Pro-Am. With some great scores returned in qualifying rounds, the Grand Final looks set to be a thriller with the top three finishers guaranteed a spot in the Pro-Am. Sunny Ramadas is one to look out for after a super round at Sharjah Golf and Shooting Club, scoring 42 Stableford points.

“I’m excited for the opportunity to represent Sharjah Golf and Shooting Club at the Golden Ball Grand Final and really looking forward to the challenge of playing Al Hamra,” said Ramadas. “Thanks to the sponsors for providing us amateurs with a great opportunity to tee it up alongside the next generation of golfing stars.”

Arjun Singh, JGE’s Golden Ball winner said: “I’m very happy with winning the qualifier and the opportunity to represent my club in the Grand Final.” Singh, who only took up golf last year, will now be competing for a chance to win a once in a lifetime opportunity to tee off with the stars.

Haitham Mattar, CEO Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development said: “It’s wonderful to see how many of the region’s clubs and golfers have got behind our Golden Ball Series. This initiative offers a unique prize that will prove an unforgettable experience for any golf lover. The

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Current Road to Oman rankings leader Tapio Pulkkanen will be among the stars teeing it up alongside the Golden Ball Grand Final winners.

Grand Finalists will be treated to playing on the beautiful Al Hamra Golf Club course which is in pristine condition ahead of our Ras Al Khaimah 2017 Golf Challenge.

“Our congratulations go out to all of the qualifiers and we wish them all the best in the Golden Ball Grand Final.”

The Golden Ball Grand Final will tee off with a 1.00pm shotgun at Al Hamra Golf Club on October 5th. The top three finishers will be awarded places in the Pro-Am ahead of the Ras Al Khaimah 2017 Golf Challenge. Please visit: worldwide.golf to see the full list of qualifiers.

European

Tour

Going from strength to strength WITH NICK TARRATT, DIRECTOR EUROPEAN TOUR INTERNATIONAL, DUBAI OFFICE

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EUROPEAN TOUR EXCLUSIVE

NICK TARRATT has worked in the industry for more than 25 years. As Director of the European Tour, Dubai Office, he has played an integral part in the Tour’s successful expansion in the Middle East.

Below, he talks about the exciting future of golf in the region and the Race to Dubai:

“THE UAE and the Middle East has been a vital area for the growth of the European Tour since the inaugural Dubai Desert Classic took place in 1989. The superb climate, golf courses and infrastructure continues to attract some of the world’s best players along with great international golf tournaments. With the addition of the Commercialbank Qatar Masters in 1998 and the Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship in 2006, plus the DP World Tour Championship in 2009, the region is the highlight of the early stage of each season’s International Tour Schedule and also the finish, with the top 60 players vying for the honour of becoming Race to Dubai Champion. During those years the area has also staged the season-ending tournament on the European Challenge Tour, along with European Senior Tour events. Now the Challenge Tour Grand Final has graduated to become another full European Tour event – the NBO Oman Golf Classic.”

KEITH WATERS Chief Operating Officer, the European Tour

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Worldwide Golf: This year has been another significant twelve months in the region – are there any further developments expected on the horizon?

Nick Tarratt: This has certainly been a busy 2017 and a great deal of time and effort has been put in preparing for another great season for European Tour activities in the Middle East throughout the 2017-18 season. We are excited to have announced the 2018 European Tour International Schedule with a new Middle East country hosting a full European Tour event, the NBO Oman Golf Classic. The tournament will carry a prize fund of 1.5€ million (equivalent in US$). This is a first for the Tour and for the Sultanate of Oman. The tournament has grown from a European Challenge Tour event - the NBO Golf Classic in 2013 and 2014 - followed by the Challenge Tour’s NBO Golf Classic Grand Final at Al Mouj Golf, Muscat, in 2015 and 2016, the season-ending tournament on the Road to Oman. In 2018 the tournament becomes a full European Tour event as part of a three-year contract running to 2020. We thank National Bank of Oman for their enhanced support as well as the Oman Oil and Gas Minister HE Dr. Mohammed Al Rumhy and the Minister of Finance for Oman. As well as the NBO initiative there are other changes to the 2018 Calendar.

WG: What else is happening on the various Tours, including on the MENA Golf Tour?

NT: First, we must all congratulate Mohamed Buamaim, Robbie Williams, Trevor Varri and the MENA Golf Tour team for continuing to enhance and widen the reach of the Tour each season. It is now recognised on the International Tours with OWGR points and Official Amateur World Ranking Points. I suggest the next development is to expand the tournaments with, perhaps, a Pro-Am before or after each event. It would be good if they could provide more playing opportunities for the leading MENA Golf Tour players, in addition to the existing relationships with the Asian Tour, Sunshine Tour and PGA Tour. The European Tour will re-engage with Mohamed and his team and create more of an alliance with the Challenge Tour. The model of development Tours channelling through the Challenge Tour can be brilliantly explained by the journey of Jordan Smith. Working together in the golf industry is the only way forward, especially in this part of the world. We have a responsibility to make things happen. Two years ago Englishman Jordan Smith from Wiltshire was playing on the EuroPro Tour, which he won in 2015. In 2016 he won in Egypt and went on to win the Ras Al Khaimah 2016 Golf

MATT FITZPATRICK

REGISTER FOR FREE FAST TRACK ENTRY TICKETS at DPWTC.com

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EUROPEAN TOUR EXCLUSIVE

2018 European Tour International Schedule – Middle East in focus ◆ Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship, Abu Dhabi Golf Club, January 18 - 21 ◆ Omega Dubai Desert Classic, Emirates Golf Club, Dubai, January 25 - 28 ◆ NBO Oman Golf Classic, Almouj Golf, Muscat, Oman, February 15 - 18 ◆ Commercial Bank Qatar Masters, Doha Golf Club, February 25 - 28

Nick Tarratt pictured with Sheikh Mansoor at the DP World Tour Championship at Jumeirah Golf Estates.

Challenge and the Challenge Tour’s Road to Oman. This year he has already won the Porsche European Open a couple of months ago and is now placed 70th in the OWGR and 17th in the Race to Dubai with his place in the DP World Tour Championship field already assured. It was great to see Jordan a few weeks ago in Ras Al Khaimah and Dubai having some R&R with his girlfriend as part of certain Ras Al Khaimah TDA initiatives.

WG: What other European Tour Initiatives are you working on with your colleagues at both the Wentworth HQ and in the Middle East Office in Dubai?

NT: In addition to our golf tournaments we either promote or sanction a number of projects, including: European Golf Design projects at Dubai Hills and Emaar South. With European Golf Design and our partnership with IMG we are designing two golf courses under the EMAAR banner in Dubai at Dubai Hills and EMAAR South. The former will be ready for play in the first quarter of 2018 with the latter expected to be completed along with the huge EMAAR South real estate development well

become the recognised venue for the seasonending tournament and we look forward to this partnership extending well beyond the existing 2020 agreement. If you are not aware, the ETPI is one of the finest facilities of its kind in the world and deserves a visit from Jumeirah Golf Estates members and non-members. Whether you want a quick fix or you want to strip your game back to basics through a season-long plan these are all part of the ETPI experience. They also have all the latest golf technology.

We provide Partnership Management and client service support for all our Dubai-based European Tour partners and supporters, including DP World, Emirates, Dubai Duty Free, Dubai’s partnership with the Race to Dubai and Jumeirah Golf Estates, alongside Tour Headquarters at Wentworth.

WG: You have worked in the industry in the region for more than 27 years – what changes have you encountered among UAE Nationals and Arab golf?

NT: It is probably my biggest regret that I, and the industry, have not been able to do more in bringing golf to UAE Nationals, mindful of the

“What excites me now is the number of initiatives being launched presently, such as the Foundation Squad being supported

by DP World through the Emirates Golf Federation, plus other such programmes through schools in Dubai, the UAE and the region” – Nick Tarratt. before EXPO 2020 and Jumeirah Golf Estates as a European Tour Destination and home to the European Tour Performance Institute (ETPI). We are proud to be associated with Jumeirah Golf Estates as a European Tour Destination, having hosted all eight editions to date of the DP World Tour Championship. Jumeirah Golf Estates has

fact that the first European Tour event was held at Emirates Golf Club back in 1989. What excites me now is the number of initiatives being launched presently, such as the Foundation Squad being supported by DP World through the Emirates Golf Federation, plus other such programmes through schools in Dubai, the

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PLUS: This year’s penultimate event on the Road to Oman – the Ras Al Khaimah 2017 Golf Challenge at Al Hamra Golf Club, Ras Al Khaimah, October 25 - 28.

From Ras Al Khaimah it is just a one hour flight to Muscat, Oman for the NBO Golf Classic Grand Final played the following week, again with a Saturday finish, where the top 15 players on the season-long Road to Oman will gain their playing privileges to play on the European Tour in 2018.

FINALLY: The season-ending grand final tournament on the Race to Dubai, the DP World Tour Championship, will be held for the 9 th time on the Earth course at Jumeirah Golf Estates on November 16 - 19. The top 60 players on the Race to Dubai, following the Nedbank Golf Challenge in South Africa, finishing on Sunday 12 November, will be making their way to Dubai to compete for the $8 million tournament prize fund and the Race to Dubai Bonus Pool of $5 million distributed to the top 10 players on the season-ending Race to Dubai.

UAE, and the region. We have a UAE National intern who will support the 2017 DP World Tour Championship, Rashid Al Qubaisi from GEMS Wellington School, who plays golf at Jumeirah Golf Estates and practises at the ETPI. He’s eager to pursue his education through a Golf Business degree in either St. Andrews, Scotland, or in Birmingham and to get into the golf industry. Rashid is 17 years old and the European Tour in particular and the golf industry in general will be only too pleased to get right behind Rashid in making his ambitions come to fruition.

WG: You have just received another role within the European Tour – how does that differ from your previous position?

NT: Recently I was appointed Acting General Manager of Jumeirah Golf Estates working alongside Ismail Sharif as Owner’s Representative under our European Tour Properties support of Jumeirah Golf Estates. My role is to assist in the management transition until the end of October with the DP World Tour Championship in November, being on site full time. I hope to add some value in assisting in the annual membership renewals and supporting where and when needed. We all thank Julian Small for all his hard work over the last two years and wish him all the best as he leaves Jumeirah Golf Estates as MD.

Hogarty triumphs in

Road To

Mongomo Qualifer presented by DSA

he second running of Road to Mongomo Qualifier presented

by DSA took place at the iconic Emirates Golf Club last month with competition tense as the pros battled it out to win one of the three coveted spots up for grabs in the US$150,000 2017 Equatorial Guinea Golf Championship - 3e Actuaries Open, taking place at the Presidential Golf Club from December 14-17 and coming out on top of a closely fought contest on the Faldo course was South Africa’s Tyler Hogarty.

Since the inaugural qualifying event took place at the now-closed Al Badia Golf Club in Dubai last year, the concept has spread around the world with events taking place in Sao Paulo, Brazil; Ibdan, Nigeria; Cape Town, South Africa and Harare, Zimbawe and over 360 players competing for 30 spots available in the sub-Saharah Africa event, which features top class male and female players from across

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the globe as well as some of Africa’s best talents.

The Dubai qualifier has captured the imagination of both the region’s pros and visiting players from the MENA Tour and this year’s edition included a new element with Emirates Golf Club members getting in on the action, each joining with a pro to form a pairs betterball team.

With a bulging field of 64 players taking to the Faldo course, including some fine professional talents, the prospect of a captivating battle for supremacy beckoned and the day did not disappoint with three players returning scores of 3-under 69.

A countback was required to decide a winner and Hogarty proved to have the best back nine meaning he was awarded top spot while joining him on the plane to Mongomo will be second placed Englishman Kyson Lloyd and fellow countryman Ben David who grabbed the third and final place on offer.

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“It’s always a thrill watching talented golfers battling down the stretch to qualify to join us in Mongomo We send our congratulations to Ben, Tyler and Kyson.”

OLAWALE OPAYINKA

“I really enjoyed the qualifier and I managed to be paired with great playing partners,” said Hogarty. “I’m friends with (Abu Dhabi based MENA Tour player) Luke Joy and he told me all about the event in Mongomo. It sounds really cool and different. I believe that the people in Equatorial Guinea really want to have us there and will extend us a warm welcome. I’ve seen the videos from last year and it looks brilliant so now I’m really looking forward to getting to the 3e Actuaries Open in December.”

For runner up Lloyd, who plays on the EuroPro Tour, the prospect of travelling to Mongomo to compete in such a big-money event offers a welcome twist of fate in his season, having only been in the UAE to visit friends in Abu Dhabi.

“I was just in the region to meet two of my friends who work in Abu Dhabi; Matthew Waters in Saadiyat Beach Golf Club and Stephen Payne at Abu

FEATURE

Dhabi Golf Club,” he said. “I heard about the qualifier and I thought that I should give it a go.

“My season was coming to an end fairly soon but now instead of working in England in the freezing cold I’ll be practicing before I head off to Africa so I look forward to that.

“If I were to win the US$24,000 winner’s cheque in Mongomo it would be the best Christmas present ever.

But I think my missus will enjoy it more than me!

“I’ve never been to Equatorial Guinea but I have seen the footage from last season’s tournament and how well they managed it and made it work so I’m really looking forward to the experience and finding out more about the country.”

Third place David added: “It was a great round and it probably was some of the best golf I’ve played. I had such a fun time playing with my partners and the course is set up well. I’m looking forward to trying something new as I’ve never played in an event as big as the one in Mongomo before so I want to give it a go and see how well I can do.

I’m excited to see Equatorial Guinea and it is great to be a part of a quality event with a good field. It’ll be nice to see where my game is compared to the players involved.”

The addition of the amateurs to the field for this year’s qualifier created a fun atmosphere that the pros enjoyed as much as their playing partners and taking top spot in the pairs better ball was the team of Kyson Lloyd and Kyle Yun with an impressive score of 65. Taking second place was Latif Rafiq and amateur playing partner Martha Wong with 66 while in third

A field of 64 golfers turned out for the Road to Mongomo qualifier presented by DSA.

“We are delighted to again be part of this event. 3e Actuaries Open Tournament Host Olawale Opayinka has brought this initiative over to Dubai and we are proud to be associated with him. We wish all the winners good luck in the finals.”

– Steve Kelshaw

place was pro Antonio Costa and Paul Donovan. Yun received a Titleist golf carry bag while Wong won a Titleist duffle bag and Donovan, a dozen ProV1s, all kindly donated by Prosports International. The pros on each team were given a Majlis voucher provided by the host venue. There was also a closely contested on course competition for ‘Meatiest Drive’ on the 10th hole sponsored by Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse which was won by Emirates Golf Club’s Lady Captain Najla Bartette.

“We are delighted to again be part of this event,” said Steve Kelshaw, Managing Director of Presenting Sponsor DSA Architects International.

“This is DSA Architects second year in supporting our local talent that gives them the opportunity to experience golf and life in Equatorial Guinea.

“3e Actuaries Open Tournament Host Olawale Opayinka has brought

Tyler Hogarty (centre), Kyson Lloyd (right) and Ben David (left) grabbed the three qualification spots after each shooting 69.

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Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse in Dubai sponsored a ‘meatiest’ drive contest. this initiative over to Dubai and we are proud to be associated with him. We wish all the winners good luck in the finals.”

The ‘Dubai Three’ will now be flown all expenses paid to Mongomo where they will stay in the five star Grand Hotel Djibloho and compete alongside the likes of PGA Tour player Charlie Wi and defending champion Craig Hinton, who also topped last year’s MENA Tour Order of Merit, as well as high quality ladies field that will feature 2016 winner and former LPGA player Paz Echeverria and the LET’s Camilla Lennarth.

“It’s always a thrill watching talented golfers battling down the stretch to qualify to join us in Mongomo,” said tournament organiser Olawale Opayinka. “This year’s Dubai qualifier was another exciting edition and we send our congratulations to Ben, Tyler and Kyson. We’re very grateful to all those who took part and to DSA Architects, Worldwide Golf and our host venue, Emirates Golf Club.

“The focus now shifts to Mongomo where the Presidential Course will see around 90 pros doing battle from December 14-17. We look forward to an even bigger qualifier in Dubai in 2018 and for now - Equatorial Guinea awaits!”

DSA OPEN PROVES ROARING SUCCESS AS ALL EYES TURN TO GRAND FINAL

he penultimate event in the Swing Against Cancer Golf Series, organised

by Worldwide Golf and Sixteen10, was the biggest yet as golfers and non-golfers alike threw their weight behind the DSA Open at Emirates Golf Club.

The presence of a certain Liverpool FC and Leeds United legend by the name of Gary McAllister may have had something to do with that as more than 90 golfers and 170 evening dinner guests attended what was a day to remember.

The former Scotland captain, who won the treble with Liverpool and the Old First Division title with Leeds, showed as much class off the pitch as he did during his playing days, literally ‘kicking off’ proceedings with a footgolf challenge on the driving range before rotating between the different groups on the course, playing a hole and chatting with each player before entertaining the evening guests with a captivating Q&A about his footballing days.

“It’s been a fantastic event; the golf course was in immaculate condition and it’s been a tough test for everybody but I’m sure they enjoyed it,” said McAllister, who sadly lost first wife Denise to breast cancer in 2006. “But the main reason we are here is to try and raise money for charity and help raise awareness for the people who suffer from this horrible disease.

“I had a horrendous time after losing my wife to breast cancer ten years ago but my word of encouragement to people who are involved in cancer is that you can get out of the other end and you can look forward.

“There is a lot of fighting to be done and

tough treatment to go through but I would say there is light at the end of the tunnel. The medicine today gives people a better quality of life who are living with cancer.”

The event offered the final chance for golfers to qualify for the Swing Against Cancer Golf Series Grand Final, the Mike Clark Golf Day and after a day of great golf and even better fun, it was Christian Reynolds who took top spot after racking up 37 Stableford points on the famous Majlis course. A card countback was required to decide the runner-up after Mark Rix and John Coll each returned 36 points. Rix had the better back nine and thus took second place to Coll’s third but both, and indeed all three, had equal reason to smile after bagging the three Grand Final spots on offer.

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Gary McAllister was a class act both on and off the course in the DSA Open.

Overwhelming support from the local business community has seen sponsorships and donations for the Swing Against Cancer Golf Series from: (Platinum) DSA Architects, DHL, Flash Entertainment, Multiplex, (Gold) PING, Titleist, Prosports International, Mediclinic, Credence International, PPA Aviation,Virgin Atlantic, Shangri-La Hotels & Resorts, Anantara, Al Tayer Stocks, Hertz, Al Futtaim Automall, WATG, WME Consultants, Afridi & Angell, Cox Gomyl, Prosperity, Clarke Samadhin, Nikki Beach Resort, Fairmont The Palm, ASG Engineering Consultants, Atlantis The Palm and Seawings.

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Mike Clark Golf Day Taking the spoils in the professional division was Andrew Burmester who produced an impressive round of 71 and will now join the other qualifiers in the Mike Clark Golf Day at Jumeirah Golf Estates on October 26th.

“What an unbelievable day,” said Steve Kelshaw, Managing Director of title sponsors DSA Architects. “For people to come out and support us like they’ve done has been so pleasing.

“I think everyone had a great time with Gary McAllister playing a few holes him and listening to his hilarious stories from his playing days.

“Gary is a great man and I think the guys have loved his interaction with them.

“There was a lot of hard work the build-up to the event but it’s been so worthwhile and we are delighted with how it’s gone.”

FEATURE DSA proved to be very much ‘hands-on’ in their role as title sponsors, reaching out to their client database to garner further support and helping the event, which also featured a live and silent auction, raise a staggering US$25,000 for charity partners Friends of Cancer Patients and The Pink Caravan which will go directly towards the care of two patients, Waleed Osman, who was at DSA Open to lend his support, and a two year old boy with leukemia who needs to raise US$55,000 for his treatment.

“We want to set the benchmark for everybody and our team at DSA are already saying next year they would like to be involved, which we certainly will be,” added Kelshaw. “We are potentially going to set the bar even higher.

We’re delighted and very grateful to all our business colleagues who came in as sponsors and hopefully it’s a model that the organisers will buy into to get other people involved in their day.”

Ping Long Drive As well as the Mike Clark Golf Day qualification spots there were plenty of on-course prizes up for grabs with some wonderful equipment and experiences donated by sponsors. A Ping Long Drive that was held on the range prior to play was won by Andrew Burmester who received a Ping G driver from local distributor Prosports International. Al Futtaim Automall also donated a driver for straightest drive which was won by Paul Murnaghan on the ninth hole while another Ping G was bagged

by Nick Pomeroy for longest drive on the third sponsored by EW Cox. Three nearest the pin contests saw James Toy win two nights half-board at Nikki Beach Resort on the 11th; Naema Maya win a TaylorMade putter on the 15th courtesy of Hertz and the one and only Steve Kelshaw win 3 x 45 minute lessons with an Emirates Golf Club Pro, one month’s unlimited driving range access and nine holes on the EGC Academy Course courtesy of Prosperity for hitting it stiff on the 17th.

“I’d just like to thank DSA Architects, they have done a great job in pulling together their clients and contacts to bring items for the raffle, auction and sponsors,” said Reza Sazegar, Managing Director of Sixteen10, Worldwide Golf’s partners in running the Swing Against Cancer Golf Series. “They have almost made it like a grand final and hopefully set the benchmark for future sponsors and qualifiers.

“Selfie please Gary Mac!” The local golfers loved swinging for a great cause alongside football icon Gary McAllister.

“I’d like to encourage people to get involved in the Mike Clark Golf Day and/or evening celebrity dinner and help us unite the local community to fight this awful illness” The three qualifiers and pro Burmester will now head to Jumeirah Golf Estates where they will join the 16 other players who booked their grand final spots at the four previous Swing Against Cancer Golf Series Qualifiers at Sharjah Golf & Shooting Club; Abu Dhabi Golf Club, The Els Club and Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club.

There they will join paying competitors and a top class celebrity line up consisting of legendary English football manager Harry Redknapp, former England rugby captain Mike Tindall and 2005 US Open champion Michael Campbell. While the pros will play for AED 5,000 and a 5-star golf holiday, the amateurs will be contesting a phenomenal DP World Tour Championship themed prize.

The winner of the Swing Against Cancer Golf Series will be treated to a ‘money can’t buy’ golf experience which will see them teeing it up alongside the likes of Rory McIlroy, Henrik Stenson and Matt Fitzpatrick in the Rolex Pro-Am for the DP World Tour Championship.

It doesn’t end there either – the winning player will also receive hospitality tickets to the tournament, an invitation to the players’ beach party, a two-night stay at Atlantis, The Palm – where the Race to Dubai’s top 60 players will also be staying – and a golf lesson with renowned coach to the stars, Pete Cowen – the technician behind the swings of multiple Major winners. The golf day will be followed by a glitzy gala dinner with three hours of free drinks and a DJ while the celebrities will entertain guests

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Big hitting pro Andrew Burmester booked a spot in the Mike Clark Golf Day, the Grand Final of the Swing Against Cancer Golf Series.

with a Q&A session while more top class lots will be up for grabs in the charity auction with the target of raising US$100,000 for Friends of Cancer Patients and The Pink Caravan.

Campbell, one of the European Tour’s bestloved players said: “One of my philosophies in life is, ‘we are born with two hands, one to receive and one to give back’, something that my grandmother taught me when I was young.

So, when an opportunity like this comes along it’s nice that in some shape or form I can make a difference.”

Prior to heading back to the UK after a day to remember at the DSA Open, McAllister said: “From what I’ve seen today it can only be a good thing if you get involved in the Grand Final, there’s a feel-good factor of being part of something that’s helping unfortunate people.”

If you weren’t one of the lucky qualifiers, fear not. Golfers or diners can still secure their place in the Mike Clark Golf Day by buying all-day or evening only tickets priced at AED 1,250 for golf and dinner; dinner only AED 395 or AED 3,500 for a table of ten (includes 3 hours of drinks and a DJ).

Email info@sixteen-10 to secure your place.

FITZPATRICK:

Steel Sheffield

2017 had been a relatively quiet year for Matt Fitzpatrick before a little re-tune opened his way to the winner’s circle again at the Omega European Masters in Switzerland last month. One of the stand-out performers from 2016 with two wins and a Ryder Cup debut to his name, the man from Sheffield is ready to roll and looking forward to returning to Dubai next month to defend his title at the season-ending DP World Tour Championship at Jumeirah Golf Estates.

B Y:

“I

hope it’s a turning point for me,” smiled Fitzpatrick after he defeated Australia’s Scott Hend at the third hole of a play-off at Crans-Sur-Sierre GC. “Up to then, 2017 had been a bit of a disappointing season for me after the unbelievable feeling of qualifying for my first Ryder Cup and winning last year’s DP World Tour Championship. However, this is my third successive year now since joining the Tour, with a win under my belt so I’m really happy with that and I’m looking forward to the rest of the season.”

Fitzpatrick finished fifth at the Omega Dubai Desert Classic in January and was runner-up at the Nordea Masters in Sweden but had struggled to regularly contend in championships throughout the season. The 23 year old took stock of his situation and managed to find something in his game, and the turnaround in fortune was dramatic.

“I had a bit of a team meeting a couple of weeks prior to playing in Switzerland to try

To d d S t a s z k o

and put a few things in place – put some things that were a bit more ‘constant’ in my processes, pick just two or three drills and stick to those and really commit to them,” he said. “We were then going to evaluate how I was playing in two or three months’ time.

Obviously it worked out a lot quicker than expected! It was a goal of mine to win this year and to do it at the Omega European Masters is fantastic.”

FAST-TRACK TO SUCCESS Fitzpatrick had been on a fast-track to success since he was introduced to the game at the age of nine. His progress as a junior at Hallamshire Golf Club on the outskirts of Sheffield didn’t go unnoticed and his amateur career peaked in 2013 when he won Low Amateur honours at The Open Championship at Muirfield and became the first Englishman to win the US Amateur in almost 100 years, at Brookline Country Club in Boston. That victory launched him to the top of the World Amateur

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Golf Rankings and earned him an invitation to the following year’s Masters and US Open. At Augusta he was rubbing shoulders with the great and the good, playing alongside Major champions Adam Scott and Jason Dufner as he narrowly missed the cut by one stroke.

Three months later he found himself in the company of Justin Rose and Phil Mickelson for the first two rounds at Pinehurst and he made the cut, finishing in a share for 48th place to win Low Amateur honours in a Major for the second time in his fast-blossoming career.

Indeed, Fitzpatrick, who was 19 at the time, became the first golfer since the legendary Bobby Jones to hold Low Amateur medals for the US Open and The Open at same time.

The hours spent playing and practising with the professionals was priceless as Fitzpatrick picked up invaluable knowledge and experience. “I think, for me, while I was an amateur, I tried to enjoy every professional event I could,” he said. “I’ve always been lucky enough to play with some big guys and huge

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FEATURE

names. So I just tried to enjoy it, tried to get some advice from them and get the answers to as many questions as I could think of.”

He decided to turn professional shortly after the 2014 US Open and made his debut at the Irish Open. A few appearances on the Challenge Tour towards the end of the season prepared him for a trip to Qualifying School, including a spot in the National Bank of Oman Golf Classic, and the youngster admits that some sage advice from his girlfriend helped him end the year on a high by earning his European Tour card. “Both my girlfriend and my caddie say that when I play will a smile on my face I play my best golf,” said Fitzpatrick, after getting through the six-round six-day ordeal of Q-School at PGA Catalunya. “I was very grateful to receive a sponsor’s invitation to play in the NBO Golf Classic. Playing in Oman in such a good tournament and on an outstanding course was part of the learning curve for me.

“I’m sure that handling the pressure of playing in The Masters, the U.S. Open and in Oman, where all the players were pushing themselves to make it to the European Tour, stood me in good stead to play my best golf at the Final Stage of Q-School. I don’t know whether I was smiling throughout those six rounds in Spain, but I was certainly smiling at the end.”

With his status secured Fitzpatrick embarked on a rookie

Above: Matt Fitzpatrick splashes out of the greenside bunker en route to winning last year’s DP World Tour Championship.

Below left: Fitzpatrick celebrates with his dad, Russell, and mother, Sue, after winning the Omega European Masters last month.

Below right: Fitzpatrick makes his breakthrough on the Euroepan Tour at the 2015 British Masters at Woburn.

campaign to remember, the highlight of which came at the British Masters at Woburn where he outlasted the experienced trio of Soren Kjeldsen, Shane Lowry and Fabrizio Zanotti by two strokes to win his first title. He signed off on a superb year with a share of fourth place at the DP World Tour Championship and in 12th place on the Race to Dubai rankings.

Last year he clinched his second win at the Nordea Masters to earn a spot in The Ryder Cup and with his wins in Dubai and Switzerland, he is the youngest Englishman to win four times on the European Tour.

At The Ryder Cup Fitzpatrick was one of six rookies playing under Captain Darren Clarke’s

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leadership and the inexperienced Europeans were dealt a heavy defeat at Hazeltine. Fitzpatrick was sent out with veteran Henrik Stenson in the Saturday foursomes but they lost 3&2 to the in-form pairing of Brandt Snedeker and Brooks Koepka. In his singles match he was downed by two-time Major winner Zach Johnson but by the time their match was decided the Ryder Cup was already lost and America had won back the cup.

BOUNCE BACK It was a tough lesson for the youngsters on the team, but of those six rookies, Fitzpatrick was the quickest to bounce back as just two months later he sealed the biggest win of his career at

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FEATURE I’ve just got to keep working hard and we’ll see what happens.”

“As a coach to young players, you want to work with a kid who’s got a bit of street fighter in him and Matt Fitzpatrick is the ideal example. He’s got that look in his eye. He’s a born competitor. He doesn’t know stage fright. He can play under immense pressure without feeling a thing – and that’s something you can’t teach. As a 19 year old amateur Matt played in the U.S. Open with Justin Rose and Phil Mickelson and made the cut.

It looked as though he was just having a bit of fun with his mates in the monthly medal at Hallamshire Golf Club.” – Pete Cowen

the DP World Tour Championship by one stroke from Tyrrell Hatton.

Rounds of 69-69-66-67 saw him post a 17-under-par total to win at Jumeirah Golf Estates and shake off any negativity that might have crept in after Hazeltine.

KEEN TO QUALIFY Indeed, of those six rookies, only Fitzpatrick (twice) and Rafa Cabrera Bello (this year’s Scottish Open) have won since their Ryder Cup debut and the Englishman is keen to qualify for Thomas Bjorn’s side next year in Paris.

“The Ryder Cup was a fantastic experience,” said Fitzpatrick

in the aftermath of last year’s 17-11 defeat. “It was something that I really enjoyed doing and it’s difficult to describe how good it actually was. There’s nowhere else that provides the atmosphere like that. It’s fantastic.”

He’s given himself a great start to qualifying, taking the lead on the European Points list after his win last month and with more big money events to finish the season he’ll hope to maintain his position heading into the offseason and then pick up again at the Desert Swing in January.

“To shoot six-under in the final round at a place like Crans is very

special,” said Fitzpatrick after the victory. “I’m also delighted to get off to a good start in The Ryder Cup points race. I think if I can continue this form heading into the end of the year and play well, I can keep at the top end of the points list. Obviously, there’s a heck of a way to go but it’s always good to get off to a bright start.

“The win has helped enormously. It’s given me that confidence boost that I can go out and do it again before the end of the year. That would be nice but, obviously, we’ll see what happens.

There are a lot of great players out here playing every week and we all know how tough it is to win.

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Top left: Matthew Fitzpatrick and Henrik Stenson during last year’s Ryder Cup. Fitzpatrick is congratulated by coaches Mike Walker and Pete Cowen (middle row), his mother Sue, (bottom left) and European Tour duo David Williams and Keith Pelley (bottom right) after winning the 2016 DP World Tour Championship.

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FEATURE

MENA Tour puts

AYLA on the Global Stage

The Middle East golf circuit received another pearl when the stunning Ayla Golf Club in Aqaba, Jordan’s first grass course, opened its doors to much fanfare just over a year ago.

The Greg Norman-designed seafront layout looked destined for big things from the outset and this month, after barely a year in operation it make its mark on the global stage by hosting a MENA Tour event for the first time.

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uch rapid progress requires an experienced hand at the helm and who better than Director of Operations Chris White? The Englishman played a key role in the development of golf both in Abu Dhabi and Ras Al Khaimah during his time at Abu Dhabi and Al Hamra Golf Clubs respectively and he oversaw the launch and beyond of the worldrenowned Yas Links in the UAE’s capital, host venue of the Abu Dhabi Invitational.

It’s an emphatic statement of the club’s ambitions that Ayla is hosting a Tour event so soon after opening and Worldwide Golf caught up with White ahead of the tournament to discuss the club’s progress since he took charge in August 2015.

Worldwide Golf: How much of a big step forward for Ayla Golf Club is it to host a MENA Tour event and be able to spread the word further afield on how good the golf course is?

Chris White: Ayla development as a whole is absolutely world class with extremely engaged, supporting and active owners. We collectively sat and discussed the best ways to further showcase the golf course, project and the City

Richard Bevan

of Aqaba and felt that a MENA Tour event was the right medium to initially create awareness and showcase ourselves to more of a regional market. For any project, particularly a country’s first, to host a professional golf tournament on literally its 367th day of opening is a statement to the quality of the course.

WG: You’ve been personally instrumental in growing the game of golf in the Middle East at the highest level for many years, how does the Ayla GC rate among the top courses in the region?

CW: Ayla Golf Club can honestly compete with any other world class venue. Again from the owners and the senior management team there was a defined and conscious decision to use a ‘signature’ architect and to deliver a finished product that would become a ‘must play’ when visiting the country. Twenty seven holes of golf (nine fully floodlit), an amazing iconically designed clubhouse / academy complimented within a development of luxury water front housing, a 286 room Hyatt Regency hotel, marina, cable wake park, beach clubs and retail village really says it all.

WG: You were closely involved in the creation and running of Yas Links, regarded as arguably the most outstanding links courses in the

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Middle East – how do you think Ayla GC compares?

CW: It is imperative that the end objective is first thought of at the planning stage. Yas Links was entering a mature golf course market and there was a need for something different - parkland, desert and resort courses existed yet the most traditional form of the game ‘links’ didn’t (why would it in truth?). Kyle Phillips was thus given the task of moving a load of soil, shaping a coastline and designing a fast and running links layout – which no one can deny he did to an exceptional standard.

Ayla is obviously different. This property is the country’s first grass golf course, there is no immediate local competition, no need to be different. What is needed is a good fair test of golf that will support growing the game locally but also be an attractive and engaging experience for visitors. Greg Norman has created a fantastic resort course where the shaping feeds the ball back to playing surfaces. Whilst the Ayla development as a whole is set in the most majestic natural environment with spectacular views of the Shara mountain range that wrap around the course, the ‘fjord like’ start of the red sea is visible on several holes as are the three manmade lagoons of Ayla offering 17.1km of beach front.

The eighth at Ayla Golf Club is a spectacular hole with the City of Aqaba as a back drop and the Red Sea Lagoons to the right.

WG: You were at Abu Dhabi Golf Club for many years and helped introduce world class golf events, such as the Abu Dhabi HSBC Golf Championship, which is still a major tournament in the UAE – is there scope to do something similar at Ayla GC, in terms of a European Tour event, and is hosting the MENA Tour the first step towards that?

CW: You are going through the archives now, I started at Abu Dhabi GC in 1999!

Ayla, internally, has an ‘events committee’ and collectively we all agree that events are required to both increase the awareness of the destination and drive footfall – others have built their success on such activity going back to the mid-eighties.

The MENA Tour is the perfect event to ‘test the water’. We have received some wonderful support from private sector sponsorship who too want to engage in this growth. European Tour, Ladies European Tour, European Senior Tour and exhibitions are all on the table being discussed. I don’t doubt it will happen at some point - ‘The Middle East Quartet’ of Abu Dhabi, Qatar, Dubai and Jordan would be a nice winter series!

Muhammad Juma Buamain who, under the country’s leadership, has in a very short period of time established a development tour that feeds into other more globally established tours.

The fruits of this investment are already being harvested in just six years – players that have competed through the years on the MENA Tour are getting themselves opportunities both in the amateur and professional game to compete on the world stage.

If you increase the pool of opportunity, whether in education, sport or general life experiences you increase the opportunity of finding talent or handling situations – experience in life is key.

WG: With players such as Rayhan Thomas emerging from the Middle East and starting to make a name for himself on the world stage, how significant has the MENA Tour been in developing the game in the region?

CW: I don’t know of anyone who wouldn’t agree that the growth and development of the UAE in many many sectors is nothing other than a success story – the country has set the benchmark and others have followed.

Aligned with this has to be the vision of

WG: Greg Norman has always said that the Ayla layout is one of the finest he has designed anywhere in the world with some outstanding features, including creating a ‘sea front’ residential community within the golf course – do you feel that golfers will be intrigued by the unique characteristics of Ayla?

CW: Visually it is breathtaking and must never be taken for granted but truthfully it is the hidden environmental sustainability that

Ayla Golf Course needs to be revered for. Led

by Ayla’s Managing Director Eng. Sahl Dudin and Director of Technical Services, Hala Araj, the team met and resolved every conceivable challenge. Water supplied by 19 wells from unusable brackish ground water, pumps, and reverse osmosis plant powered by solar energy (producing an excess of requirement and sending back to the grid), grass selection capable of taking a high salinity of treated water, minimised grass areas and a drainage system that feeds all back to source.

Yes it’s a great layout and a real test with wind but with low humidity and a dry heat it’s a great all year round golfing and holiday venue.

“This property is the country’s first grass golf course”

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WG: With so many tourist attractions, such as Petra, within easy reach from Aqaba, it is a ‘must-stay and play’ destination for the golf tourist with something different to offer than the UAE and Qatar. Are you beginning to see more footfall in that regard and is the increase in airlines flying to Aqaba helping?

CW: From the back of the fourth green at Ayla you can see Saudi Arabia, Egypt and Isreal whilst standing in Jordan. Already we are regularly receiving visitors and guests from these countries.

Petra is a 90 minute drive, the incredible and spectacular Wadi run 30 minutes away, the renowned diving of the Red Sea on our

FEATURE

The second hole is a testing par 3 with a multitude of pin placements resulting in a two club swing in club selection.

Ayla’s Director of Operations Chris White has been at the forefrront of golf’s development in the Middle East for almost 20 years.

The flowing wadi runs parallel to the length of the 15th with an intimidating pond nestled against the green side edge.

doorstep – Aqaba is a fantastic place for a long weekend visit and I urge all to experience a destination (as seen in the film The Martian) that’s out of this world!

Royal Wings (the charter division of Royal Jordanian) have introduced direct flights to Aqaba from Dubai, Cairo, Lebanon, Copenhagen, Helsinki, Brussels and Stockholm, whilst a number of other charters arrive from Russia. Easy Jet have visited and Turkish Airlines are in discussions to connect Aqaba to Istanbul and beyond – footfall will come.

WG: Aqaba has a near-perfect yearround climate without extremes of weather – do you see Ayla GC offering an attractive summer destination for UAE-based golfers?

CW: We do. I spent 16 years in the UAE and no matter how acclimatised you become there are some summer days where the humidity is intense. Aqaba doesn’t suffer from such levels of humidity and I really believe the destination is a great short break during those oppressive summer months. From an investment perspective we are seeing GCC residents buying in Ayla and commuting back and forth whilst the family enjoy the less oppressive summer heat.

WG: With the only other golf club in Jordan being the sand course in Amman, is the number of Jordanians

taking up the game starting to rise and will hosting the MENA Tour help with that process?

CW: Bisharat Golf Club, Amman is where the game in Jordan began and they must be recognised for their continued efforts.

The Jordan Golf Federation has a new engaged and active board whom, with Ayla, have a remit of getting a 7 iron in as many under-15 year olds’ hands as possible – henceforth Ayla’s Head Professional Chris Dodd is taking golf to schools in Aqaba and schools to golf from Amman. It goes back to that statement above, “increase the pool of opportunity and you increase the opportunity of finding talent.”

During MENA Tour week we shall be hosting some 60 local kids and will be introducing them to golf whilst also working with the world-renowned David Edwards and his impressive trick show.

WG: Having seen the gradual progress of the Ayla GC since you’ve been at the club, are you pleased with the end product and are there any other facilities you would like to see introduced?

CW: Ayla Golf Club is in a great place, the Academy Clubhouse is nearing completion and will be fully operational in Q1 18 with some tremendous facilities. This iconic structure won two architecture awards at the Arabian Property Awards announced just prior to Cityscape in Dubai this year.

One of the current projects on

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“The MENA Tour is the perfect event to ‘test the water’.

We have received some wonderful support from private sector sponsorship who too want to engage in this growth.”

the table is to establish an indoor golf centre in Amman where we can essentially introduce the game to a larger population during the week and feed them down to Aqaba at weekends.

WG: What do you feel are the outstanding holes on the golf course?

CW: Hole 1 is a strong and relatively gentle introduction. The par three holes 2, 6 and 16 are also very strong whilst the closing stretch of 17 and 18 really will, I believe, determine the champion during our MENA Tour event.

Hole 18 in particular at 465 yards into a prevailing wind with water down the right side essentially from tee to green is a daunting challenge – a bogey to win and the grip pressure tightens, a par for a play-off and the tempo increases and a birdie to lead in the clubhouse could lead to a make or break.

Honestly there are eighteen great holes with the course route resulting in the prevailing wind impacting in all directions.

WG: What do you see as the future of Ayla GC? CW: Ayla Golf Course is one element of one of the finest master planned mixed use developments in the world and that is not exaggerated.

The investment in infrastructure is complete which essentially means we can pull the trigger on new individual plot developments almost instantly.

Quite sensibly, we grow in a phased and ‘as per demand’ way. Over time residential communities will increase, hotel occupancies will rise and visitor number will grow. This can only bode well for the introduction of golf to newcomers and the growth of the game in Jordan – the MENA Tour is a stepping stone to this journey.

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Gear WG

PXG 0311X DRIVING IRON p.56

MIZUNO MP18 p.60

TITLEIST 718 IRON RANGE p.58

COBRA F-MAX p.62

PXG add more firepower PXG Middle East Ambassador Alex Riggs gets to grips with the latest 0311X driving iron.

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SHOOT DONE AT TRUMP INTERNATIONAL GOLF CLUB, DUBAI

PXG 0311T 3 IRON PXG 0311X DRIVING IRON

How does it compare to Alex’s 0311T 3 iron?

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There’s a huge difference in the flight penetration with this new PXG driving iron. I previously used the PXG 0311T 3 iron which I loved but this 0311X driving iron definitely has a far lower trajectory, inferior spin and goes around 20 yards further with roll. It’s going straight into my bag!

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Alex Riggs

Low, straight and powerful

“This thing comes off like a cannon.” PXG Middle East Ambassador, Alex Riggs, is delighted with the new 0311X driving iron that PXG has recently released. Bob Parsons’ much-talked-about brand is converting more customers to PXG by the day and this new arrival will definitely tempt any golfer who isn’t a fan of hybrids and struggles with their long game.

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TECHONOLOGIES & DESIGN

• Softer feel and dramatic performance • World’s thinnest clubface • Exceptionally high MOI • Minimal Offset

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GEAR

Plenty of choice

The PXG driving iron comes in 1-5 iron so there’s lots of versatility for you to find the driving iron that fits your gap and enhances your ability.

Wide Sole, Low CG

The 0311X driving irons have a wide sole. This helps lower the CG, producing less spin with a more penetrating ball flight.

World’s thinnest club face

The ultra-thin face is formed from HT1770 high-strength steel. The patented technology of an ultra-thin face coupled with thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) material results in higher ball speeds and longer distances.

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BOB PARSONS, PXG FOUNDER

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“PXG makes the world’s finest golf equipment and our new 0311X driving iron is no exception. It keeps the ball low and sends it far, feels buttery smooth and looks smoking hot.”

BILLY HORSCHEL

“The 0311X looks incredible at address,’ says Billy Horschel.

‘It really suits my eye. Off the tee, it launches low with little spin, which helps me avoid getting into some hairy spots on the course.”

Why should I add this PXG Driving Iron to the bag?

“If you’re playing on a golf course that has tight fairways or you have to deal with windy conditions, this PXG 0311X driving iron would be the perfect club to add to your bag. Or if you’re looking for an alternative to a tee shot club that comes out lower and harder, this new PXG iron is the one you need to test out.”

Head over to eGolf Megastore to test out the driving iron and find out why everyone is becoming captivated by PXG.

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Iron range

Titleist

718

DISTANCE HAS A WHOLE NEW LOOK Look down and you’ll see a playerpreferred shape that inspires confidence. You’ll feel even better knowing this beauty of an iron possesses all the distance and forgiveness you demand to play your best.

Could the AP3 be the best of both worlds?

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HE latest Titleist 718 irons are by far their most diverse range to date and can cater for all our golfing tastes and demands. But the one that has really grabbed my attention is the all new AP3. As a five-handicapper I found the former AP2 was a true player’s club and delivered great feedback and feel, while perhaps being a little unforgiving. The AP1, on the other hand, was confidence-inspiring and I got away with shots that should have been punished. But, as a result, the feedback from the strike wasn’t on the same level as the AP2. It appears that Titleist has listened to the demands of the regular club golfer and even some of the Tour pros and come up with the AP3 as a blend of the best of the AP1 and AP2.

I’ve seen the clubs and they certainly look the part. By next month’s issue I will have been able to play a few rounds with them to find out if Titleist has managed to create my dream iron.

Having looked at them at address and spoken to the guys at Titleist I’ve been able to piece together the technical elements that explain how the iron falls into the 718 range. Bill Haas has put the AP3 three iron in the bag and Ian Poulter has been pictured using them. It will be interesting to see after the official launch, which Titleist staff players mix in the AP3 into their bags for good.

Mixing the irons up like the Titliest staff players, might be the best way to go when you get fitted. For example, Jordan Spieth blends AP2 five to nine irons with TMB three and four irons, topped off with four Vokey Spin Milled SM6 wedges. You don’t have to be led into buying an off-the-shelf set. I’m all for picking the best clubs to keep my score card as low as possible - which is why I’m intrigued as to how the AP3 falls into the range.

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FORMIDABLE FORGIVENESS

With AP3 you get the off-centre performance of a game improvement iron packed into a club that delivers the feel of a player’s iron. Precise when you ‘pure it’, and forgiving when you don’t.

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GEAR

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718

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Titleist CB

718

Titleist MB

Traditional looks packed with modern technology, the 718 CB irons continue Titleist’s legacy of delivering an incredible Tour-proven performance in a sleek, cavity back profile. With playable shot control when you want it, and forgiving performance where you need it this remarkably consistent iron lets you play the course the way you want to. CB irons also utilise a similar co-forging process that exists in the AP2 model to incorporate tungsten in the heel and toe for added stability.

For the purist, there is no substitute for a one-piece, muscleback iron. The 718 MB is forged from a single billet of carbon steel for the purist look, sound and feel possible. Strategically designed CG locations deliver superior shotmaking and responsive feedback, allowing you to hit any shot possible.

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718

Titleist T-MB What began as the ultimate utility iron has grown into a full set of uniquely-designed irons that deliver distance with every loft. If you like the way T-MB utility irons perform, you should feel what it’s like to play the full set! A hollow-body, multi-material construction utilises high-density tungsten and a thin unsupported face to create faster ball speeds, while still offering a Tour-validated look and feel. It’s an incredibly advanced combination.

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718

Titleist AP1

718

Titleist AP2

The AP1 is the ultimate game improvement iron! With explosive ball speed and an even more-forgiving face, 718 AP1 irons reward you in every way you can imagine. All while maintaining Titleist’s classically coveted look and feel. They provide players with maximum distance and maximum forgiveness. You can launch it high and land it soft with a lower CG and refined tungsten weighting for each individual iron.

An instrument of precision, the new Titleist 718 AP2 irons deliver a Tour-proven performance. If you demand ultimate playability with consistent distance and forgiveness, these are the irons for you. Greater forgiveness and stability are achieved through precise perimeter tungsten weighting and a unique co-forged construction. Attack even the most challenging pin placements with more confidence than ever.

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MP-18

Irons to touch your soul Refined by Mizuno’s master craftsmen in YORO, Japan – the MP18s are inspired by every great player to ‘pure’ a Mizuno iron since 1933.

The master mould of every head is checked and adapted to the satisfaction of our most experienced clubmakers – including the legendary Turbo. Three models, Grain Flow Forged in Hiroshima, are designed to mix and match within a custom set. The object is to find the artist in every player.

MP-18 / The Craftsmen’s Muscleback Sculpted by Mizuno’s YORO master craftsmen, the MP-18 is a throwback to the muscle-backs of Mizuno’s past.

A shorter blade length, cambered top line and steep progression into sharp, compact wedges are the marks of our master clubmakers – who honed their skills on the irons of Major winners.

Grain Flow Forged in Hiroshima, Japan, for the most colourful feedback imaginable.

Master moulds finished by Mizuno’s YORO Craftsmen: Mizuno’s most experienced, skilled craftsmen put their finishing grinds and touches to every iron from 3-PW. High Density (HD) feel: Our evolved Grain Flow Forged HD process concentrates the grain in our 1025 E Pure Select mild carbon steel billets more tightly for incredible, precise feedback.

Major winning DNA: A shorter blade length and low heel profile influenced by our catalogue of Major-winning irons.

Ultra-thin topline: A narrow topline has an additional camber for further refinement.

Smaller pitching wedge: Sharper, more refined short irons into the pitching wedge are influenced by our Yoro Master craftsmen.

Practically perfection “You can sense Turbo’s signature on the MP-18s.

They remind me of the blades we worked on together all those years ago.”

– Sir Nick Faldo, Six-time Major winner “We significantly shifted the balance of science and art with the MP-18s.

You can instantly notice a greater input from the master craftsmen in that the MP-18 is more like the blades that made Mizuno famous – just more precise in its flow and manufacturing. At impact, this is just about perfection.”

- Chris Voshall, Senior Club Engineer

MP-18 SC / The Player’s Cavity Back A compact cavity back, sensitively reworked by the same master craftsmen who created multiple Major-winning iron sets. A slightly wider, cambered sole makes this more playable than the muscleback.

The thin, tapered top line, short head length and smaller wedges mean this is very much a Tour-ready iron. Grain Flow Forged in Hiroshima for the most colourful feedback through impact.

“The MP-18 SC is an iron that combines a lot of practical needs – stability, workability and softness at impact with our craftsmen’s desire for immaculate looks over the ball.

Although the sole is a little wider than the muscleback, from every playing position, the two models blend beautifully as a mixed set. The MP-18 SC wedges don’t taper off as dramatically in size as the muscle back – so between the two models better players will find something that suits their eye.” – Chris Voshall, Senior Engineer.

Players compact profile: Just 0.5mm taller than our MP-18 blade, with our YORO signature low heel design.

Ultra-thin topline: Just 1mm thicker than the MP-18 muscleback, with an additional refining camber.

Forged in Hiroshima Japan at Mizuno’s YORO flows into any MP-18 split set.

The MP-18, MP-18 SC and MP-18 MMC flow together within a custom built, mixed set. RH & LH / 3-PW

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Forged in Hiroshima, Japan, at their exclusive plant – manufacturer of Grain Forged heads for Mizuno for more than 30 years Mizuno has produced Grain Flow Forged from a single billet for incredible feel and distance control.

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MP-18

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FIRST FOR MIZUNO

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MP-18 SC

MP-18 MMC

MP-18 MMC / Multi-Material Cavity A three-year project led by our Yoro master craftsmen has developed a highly stable, forgiving multi-metal construction iron, which satisfied their aesthetic demands at address. Even with both lightweight titanium and heavier tungsten parts, sealed within its 1025E mild carbon steel head, the MP-18 MMC maintains a similar ‘Tour-ready’ profile and size to the MP-18 SC. “The MP-18 MMC is the first multimaterial MP iron built in the vision of our master clubmakers, which set standards for looks and aesthetics that this kind of multi-metal construction typically prohibits. It extended

our normal two-year development cycle by a full year – but raising the bar that little bit higher delivered a landmark iron.”

– Chris Voshall, Senior Engineer Multi-Metal stability design: Use of both lightweight titanium (8g) and heavier tungsten (20g) for surprising off-centre performance.

Master moulds finished by our YORO Craftsmen: Mizuno’s most experienced, skilled craftsmen put their finishing grinds and touches to every iron from 4-PW.

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Players compact profile: Similar in size to the MP-18 SC, with the added forgiveness of multi-material construction.

Dual metal short irons: Absence of tungsten toe weight keeps the short irons more workable.

Flows into any MP-18 split set.

Offset has been calculated to flow into a mixed set with either MP-18 and MP-18 SC – once lofts have been weakened to match either set.

RH only / 4-PW

Cobra F-MAX making golf easy

If you’re struggling with your game and searching for answers or excuses, look no further than the new Cobra F-MAX family that promises your ‘best golf is yet to come’ once you switch to this set. Aimed at mid to high handicappers, the F-MAX range is forgiving, draw-biased and incredibly easy to hit as eGolf Megastore’s Jason Ashley proves this month after testing out the: driver, fairway woods, hybrids and irons.

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DRIVER

● Ultralight construction – Generate more clubhead speed with less effort ● Lighter Swing Weights – Helps with launch and swing speed ● Larger grip - Improves comfort and consistency “The driver comes in an offset version as well as a straight-neck hosel to help promote a higher launch and a draw ball flight.

The alignment aid on the crown really helps square the face up at address. If you’re constantly slicing your drives and finding it difficult to launch them, this driver will definitely assist with that.”

Jason Ashley Worldwide GOLF 62

GEAR

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WOODS & HYBRIDS

● Shallow profile at address - Promotes higher launch ● Lighter, more forgiving profile – helps out with mis-hits

“The alignment aid on the crown along with the shallow profile gives you great confidence to hit it out the middle with plenty of launch. I was surprised how far I hit this club and with the ball speeds. Very impressive.”

Jason Ashley

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IRONS

● Improved clubhead construction – Looks and performs far better ● Launch and forgiveness in mind – Greater lofts, design and back CG “The deep undercut cavity helps save weight and allows the engineers to reposition it to maximise forgiveness and launch.

As you put it down it just looks easy to use and the lighter swing weight and shaft gives you the sense that you can swing it faster.

I launched the F-MAX iron on average around 20 degrees which is exceptional high for me and I noticed a significant difference in clubhead speed.”

Jason Ashley

Conclusion

“I’m really impressed with the Cobra F-MAX series and I think they will benefit many players that need a bit of extra distance, straighter flight and height. There’s no doubt you’ll be surprised with how light and easy they are to hit.

It’s certainly worth heading down to eGolf Megastore to find out for yourself.”

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TA KE DE A D A IM. NEW 818 HYBRIDS. DRIVER TECHNOLOGY PACKED INTO TWO DISTINCT HYBRID PROFILES. FIND THE PERFECT FIT FOR YOUR GAME AT TITLEIST.CO.UK/818

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21/09/2017 17:02

GAME

Changer HOLE MORE PUTTS p.66

CREATE THE COIL p.68

COACHING GOLF’S FUTURE p.70

Never stop improving This month Emirates Golf Club’s Stephen Deane teaches you a signature Pete Cowen drill to help improve your swing rhythm and power. However, it’s no good smashing it 250+ yards if you can’t putt! Yas Links’ Mark Jones can cure this with Aimpoint Express. There’s no age limit to these drills, find out why you should start them young at Trump International Golf Club, Dubai.

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Hole More

Putts With the number 1 green reading system in the world

BY MARK JONES, PGA TEACHING PROFESSIONAL, YAS LINKS, ABU DHABI

W

e would all like to be able to walk up to any putt and read it in 10 seconds. Aimpoint Express now allows you to achieve this. Misreading a putt is the main cause of missing a putt.

There are many ways of hitting a putt on your intended line but if it’s the wrong line, you will miss.

Many of the players I have come across in my seven years of coaching generally have no routine before they putt and struggle to read greens in general. Our eyes play tricks on us all the time so Aimpoint is great because it’s a 90% feel system and gives a player a routine to stick to before a putt is struck.

WHAT IS AIMPOINT EXPRESS? Aimpoint Express is a green reading system that allows you to predict the break of any putt no matter the length or difficulty.

Side tilt in a slope causes the ball to break and we teach you how to gauge the severity of a slope. The system is designed to be accessible for every type of player.

It is a system that combines feeling the slope of the green, putting a value on that slope and then learning to indicate where you need to aim using your fingers depending on the severity of the slope. With the right speed, the putt will go in!

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INSTRUCTION

A BRIEF OUTLINE OF THE PROCESS Check which foot is higher or lower again at the halfway point of your putt to ensure what you are feeling is accurate throughout the putt.

Ensure you walk on the low side of your putt as you do not want to walk across the line of your putt, this would be breaking the rules.

1 SLOPE GAUGE

Stand with your ball between your feet, pointing your toes at the hole. Ask your self which foot is higher and which foot is lower?

MEASURE You need to now put a number on what you felt in the slope. This can only be learned by attending an Aimpoint Clinic with a certified instructor. The amount of fingers you hold up indicates the severity of the slope you are putting across and the value you felt.

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2

AIMPOINT You would then line up the edge of your fingers with the hole and the outside of your fingers will give you a point of where you need to aim.

HIT THE PUTT AT THE CORRECT SPEED ON YOUR AIMPOINT AND WATCH IT DROP IN THE HOLE…

Aimpoint is easy to learn and if practiced correctly with a certified instructor you can become great at green reading in just a couple of months.

Mark is the only certified Aimpoint Instructor in Abu Dhabi and hosts clinics on a monthly basis.

WATCH THE VIDEO AT

You can book your clinic spot with Mark at Yas Links, Golf Academy by emailing him at mjones@yaslinks.com

WorldwideGolf WWGolfMag

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Create the

Coil T his month we will show you a signature Pete Cowen drill called the Spiral Staircase.

Once you have established the correct posture by tipping from the hips (more detail on how to achieve this in the attached video), you instantly have better control of the ground and therefore more control of everything above the ground i.e. your body motion.

This simple drill is a great way of visualising and feeling how the weight should move during the golf swing.

Juniors New.pdf

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27/08/2017

8:12 pm

The Dubai Golf Junior Programme Worldwide GOLF 68

INSTRUCTION

The body motion isn't just a turn and then a rotation back. It's a spiral motion using the ground and loading your muscles in a spiral motion as we move the weight from the left foot to the right shoulder up.

It’s important to remember this is a dry exercise and not a ball-hitting exercise similar to the axe drill mentioned in previous articles.

Once in position you move incrementally holding the following for a few seconds:

LEFT CHEST RIGHT SHOULDER HOLD…

LEFT ABS RIGHT CHEST HOLD…

LEFT THIGH RIGHT ABS HOLD…

LEFT KNEE RIGHT THIGH HOLD…

LEFT SHIN RIGHT KNEE HOLD…

As you work the drill you'll feel your body tighten like a spring This up loading is then released through the ground as the body unwinds down around and through.

A great Pete Cowen signature drill to improve your body motion in a 3Dimensional movement, and generate the power, accuracy and consistency you desire.

Important to note that as you load up the right shoulder, the right hip moves up and back. If this doesn't happen, you'll definitely lose power and the exercise won't have as much impact on your game.

LEFT FOOT RIGHT SHIN HOLD…

FOR MORE DETAIL, PLEASE WATCH THE ATTACHED VIDEO AND COME TO THE ACADEMY TO GAIN EXPERT ADVANCE FROM OUR TEAM OF PROFESSIONALS.

Registration is now open for term one which

#emiratesgc

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WATCH THE VIDEO AT WorldwideGolf WWGolfMag

Coaching Golf ’s Future WITH PGA PROFESSIONAL MICHAEL BOLT, TRUMP INTERNATIONAL GOLF CLUB, DUBAI

G

etting junior participation on a skyward trend is a hot topic and one that is crucial to the future of golf as a sport. Juniors truly are a major focus in this great game and clubs are having to be extremely committed to breaking down the barriers to participation, whilst making the sport engaging and exciting for a wide audience.

Here at Trump International Golf Club, Dubai we are dedicated to encouraging youngsters to not only take up golf and to have fun while doing so, but also just as importantly to develop and retain them into full adult participation.

We have recently adopted the UAE Junior Development Programme (JDP) as a basis for our Junior Academy. Launching this month, our

programme provides a pyramid system of learning, which provides a platform to specifically monitor and aid the development of each child.

In total, eight clubs throughout the UAE have integrated and adopted the UAE JDP, with the pyramid system making up seven colours of development, incorporating the Tee It U SMASH, DISCOVER & ENHANCE in-school programmes.

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INSTRUCTION

DRILL #

1 We believe that the key to keeping junior golfers engaged, especially in the early stages of learning is to combine golf specific exercises with fun and active games and skill tests.

Fundamental Movement Skills don't just happen but are created.

By concentrating on encouraging fundamental movements both specific and non-specific to golf, children develop as a complete athlete, whilst adopting the fundamentals of golf both directly and inadvertently.

The reason behind this is that although many children develop good physical skills whilst growing, there are many who don’t.

Physically skilled children often enjoy vigorous healthy play, while others may not have had similar opportunities. By operating this

THROWING BALL INTO THE NET FROM GOLF POSTURE

Encourages explosive, dynamic move. Which helps create strength and power

holistic system we are able to progress juniors through the 'pyramid' at a rate specific to them, whilst engaging them appropriately for their level of both golf and general sporting ability.

Alongside this, we believe it crucial to ultlise the golf course environment heavily during junior sessions with the aim of making students feel comfortable out on the course, engraining both simple etiquette and golf course awareness even if this sometimes limits the amount of golf actually being played on the course.

DRILL #

2

SWINGING ON BALANCE BOARD

Encourages the creation of core strength, emphasising balance and rhythm control throughout the golf swing

WATCH THE VIDEO AT WorldwideGolf WWGolfMag 8 week semester 760 AED or 3 semesters for 1900 AED (24 weeks of coaching) #Members of the JDP are also entitled to full and unlimited use of the driving range and short game area during the duration of the semesters.

CONTACT THE TRUMP GOLF ACADEMY AT GOLFACADEMY@TRUMPGOLFDUBAI.COM OR 04 245 3939.

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JUME IR A H GO L F ESTATES

EMIRAT E S GOL F C LU B

Chia sets up Golden Ball Grand Final place

Vir Singh claims spot in Golden Ball Grand Final Arjun Vir Singh took home the top prize in Jumeirah Golf Estates’ Monthly Medal, claiming a Golden Ball Grand Final spot in the process. 39 participants finished the Golden Ball qualifier event but it was Vir Singh who came out on top after carding a net 69, with Ornella Parigi finishing a close second.

“It was a pleasant surprise to hear that I had not only won the Members Medal but also won the Golden Ball Award for my club,” Vir Singh said.

“It was hard round of golf with the weather being extremely tiring, both hot and humid. My goal for the last three or four holes was to physically make it through the round by keeping my body hydrated and mind focused. Overall, I am very happy with the win and the opportunity to represent my club in the playoffs on the 5th; especially since I only picked up playing this sport in May last year” Vir Singh will now compete at Al Hamra in the Golden Ball Final on October 5th to try and claim a spot in the Ras Al Khaimah 2017 Golf Challenge Pro-Am, giving amateurs a chance to mix with the Challenge Tour stars.

JE B E L A LI G O LF RESORT

Sandra Chia will be setting her sights on winning the Golden Ball Grand Final after delivering a super performance and taking the crown in the ladies Golden Ball qualifier at Emirates Golf Club.

Thirty-seven ladies took part in the event with Chia scoring a net 41 to top the table. Ingrid Lind-Eerligh came a close second with a score of net 39 to finish two off the leader.

Chia will now take her place in the Grand Final at Al Hamra, with the three winners gaining a spot in the Ras Al Khaimah 2017 Pro-Am which will see the winners rubbing shoulders with the European Challenge Tour stars.

“I am very excited to go to Al Hamra Golf Club for the chance to play in the ProAm,” said Chia. “Hopefully I will continue my good form from today!”

Adam Prior Wins Dubai Golf Summer Series Fixture 4 Adam Prior scored a fantastic 39 points to win the fourth and final fixture of the Dubai Golf Summer Series at the Emirates Golf Club on the Faldo course, Robert Darrsh scored an excellent 38 points to finish as runner-up while Rajinder Razdan came in third with an even par 36 points.

After the conclusion of the series, Michael Herb emerged as the winner of the Order of Merit, scoring an overall points total of 113. In second place was Rajinder Razdan for an overall tally of 105 points while in third place on the Order of Merit came Ishwar Jodha, one point adrift on 104 points.

E MIRAT E S GOL F F E DE RA T I O N

Hassard en route to Golden Ball Grand Final Ryan Hassard sealed his ticket after winning the Golden Ball qualifier event at Jebel Ali Golf Resort.

“Thank you to all the team at Jebel Ali for hosting such a professional event, the course was in fantastic shape and l look forward to representing the club in the Grand Final and hopefully making it to the Pro Am with the Challenge Tour professionals,” said a delighted Hassard after his round.

The Grand Final, which will be held at Al Harma Golf Club on the 5th October, gives the players an opportunity to compete with the Challenge Tour pros in the Ras Al Khaimah 2017 Golf Challenge Pro-Am, which will also be held at Al Hamra Golf Club.

Mani makes it count in Golden Ball Gokul Mani claimed top spot in the Gentleman’s Golden Ball qualifier at Emirates Golf Club and will now have his sights set on Golden Ball Grand Final glory.

Mani shot an impressive net score of 37 to claim top spot amongst a field of 44 in the Mike Gerbich Cup on the Majlis course. He will now join the rest of the qualifiers at Al Hamra Golf Club on October 5 to try and claim one of three spots in the Ras Al Khaimah 2017 Golf Challenge Pro-Am which will see the winners pit their wits against the stars of the European Challenge Tour.

“I am thoroughly looking forward to playing in the Golden Ball Grand Final in Al Hamra,” said Mani. “Today was a tough qualifier and I am delighted to have won this opportunity.”

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UAE improve scores at the 2017 APGC Junior Championship Four United Arab Emirates (UAE) National Junior golfers competed in the 2017 Asian Pacific Golf Confederation (APGC) Junior Championship at Hong Kong Golf Club.

The first UAE team made up Reema Al Heloo and Mohamed Al Hajeri carded 78 – 82 – 172 in three rounds for a total of 332 as the team finished in 34th place. Leading the way for the first team was Mohamed Al Hajeri who had a convincing championship shooting a 77 (5-over-par) in his final round. The second UAE team made up of Tara Al Marzooqi and Rashid Al Emadi finished in 38th place.

ARABIAN GOLF D UB A I C R E E K G O LF & YACHT CLUB

Bawkar Clinches DDF Senior Cup Glory Kumar comes out on top at OMA Emirates Medal Championship Bawkar runs away with Junior Medal Shreyas Bawkar produced an excellent round of 31 to claim the Dubai Creek Junior Medal Championship at Dubai Creek.

Nikhil Bhatia won the boys category with a round of 31, last year’s Order of Merit winner Vihaan Sharma shot 34 to claim the runner-up spot while Aarnav Nath was third with a score of 36.

Hannah Alan was victorious in the girls category after her score of 37.5.

Subhash Bawkar produced an outstanding performance of 40 stableford points to win the 20th Dubai Duty Free Senior’s Cup at Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club.

After their superior back nine performances in the Men’s Division, Mohammed Al Musharrekh and Min Chul Shin were the division’s winner and runner up respectively after tying with four other players on 37 stableford points.

The Ladies Division was also tightly contested with Haide Wright snatching the title with a single point advantage over Maureen Platt who settled for runner-up spot.

Saurabh Kumar was victorious in the OMA EMIRATES Medal Championship, in association with Genesis, after carding a great net 65 at Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club.

Division A saw Ishwar Jodha narrowly beat George Kasparis by a single stroke after their scores of 69 and 70 respectively.

Division B went to Will Jones after carding net 65 while Qais Qureshi was four strokes behind to secure the runner-up spot.

Paula Savage took home the Ladies Division title after a superb finishing stretch of holes.

A R A B IA N R A N C HES

T H E T RAC K , ME Y DAN GO LF

Gathercole and Campbell seal Golden Ball ticket after wins at Arabian Ranches Golf Club Mark Gathercole booked his place in the Golden Ball Grand Final after shooting a net 69 to win the Mens Monthly Medal Event, supported by the Rivoli Group, at the Arabian Ranches Golf Club.

The Golden Ball Grand Final which will be hosted at Al Harma Golf Club on October 5, will give players the chance to compete for a chance to play with the European Challenge Tour Pros in the Ras Al Khaimah 2017 Golf Challenge Pro-Am. Gathercole’s net 69 won him the event by one shot over Ron Murphy, who carded a net 70 to finish runner-up in the 23-man field.

Ailsa Campbell came out on top in the Ladies

Medal Event with a net 68, but will be unable to compete in the Grand Final, which means second placed Heather Totten will take the place after finishing the Ladies event with a net 70.

“I’m a bit nervous because I’ve played Al Hamra once before and found it quite challenging because some of the holes are long and I’m not used to dealing with water hazards!” said Totten when asked on her thoughts of playing in the Grand Final. “ I’d be delighted to progress and have the chance to play with professional golfers. I’d just like to do my best on the day.”

Guennif masters Meydan Farid Guennif put together a great round of 39 points at Meydan Golf to win a two-night stay for two at Jumeirah Beach Hotel to conclude the Troon Executive Card Summer Series while George Fitchet scored 34 points to claim the runnerspot and Dickson Yip secured third place with a respectable 32 points.

YA S LIN KS GO L F CLUB

Tylsdley claims Grand Final ticket Simon Tylsdley sealed his Golden Ball Grand Final ticket after carding a net 71 at the Audi Medal Golden Ball qualifier event at Yas Links Golf Club.“It was a pleasant surprise to hear that I had not only won the Members Medal but also won the Golden Ball Award for my club,” Tylsdley said.

Alastair Crombie came a close second, only losing out on a place in the Grand Final after a count back, with Tylsdley having the better back 9 by one stroke.

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Tylesdly will now battle it out with fellow qualifiers at Al Harma Golf Club on the 5th October, to compete for a chance to take part in the Ras Al Khaimah 2017 Golf Challenge Pro-Am, which will see the winner rubbing shoulders with the stars of The Challenge Tour.

“I thought I’d blown my chances with back to back bogies over the last two holes, but now looking forward to playing in Al Hamra,” added Tylsdley.

SA A D IY A T B E A C H GOLF CLUB

Rivollier heading for Golden Ball Grand Final

Rivoller comes out on top in Summer Stableford

Blanca Rivollier will be heading to Al Hamra on October 5 to compete in the Golden Ball Grand Final, after finishing runner up in the Infinity Monthly Medal event at Saadiyat Beach Golf Club.

Rivollier finished three shots behind winner Kevin Moore, but as he is unable to attend the event it will be Rivollier who takes the Golden Ball ticket. “It would be a great privilege to play with the pros at Al Hamra, which is such a nice course and well suited to ladies,” said Riviollier when asked about the prospect of playing with the pros.

“I really want to thank the sponsors for this tournament, in part because it is made accessible to amateurs such as me and is so much fun.”

Rivollier will now line up with the fellow qualifiers in the Grand Final on October 5, for a chance to play with the stars of the Challenge Tour in the Ras Al Khaimah 2017 Golf Challenge Pro-Am.

Staff reclaim trophy Saadiyat Beach Golf Club held their muchanticipated members versus staff match which saw staff aiming to reclaim the trophy after being defeated in last year’s event. Unfortunately for the members, it was time for the trophy to go back to the rightful winners after the staff clinched the trophy once again for an impressive sixth time in seven years.

Rivollier wins Sundowner Series The Southern Sun Saadiyat Sundowner 2017 has now to come a close, the 15-week Order of Merit was full of great golf, food and fun with many winners over the course of the series.

Blanca Rivollier finished top of the table after a run of very consistent scoring doubled up with competitive spirit saw her overcome the rest of the field and become champion.

Bochet aiming for Luckiest Ball on Earth Glory Stephanie Bochet claimed her place in the Luckiest Ball on Earth Final after shooting an impressive net 68 in the Infiniti Members Medal/ Luckiest Ball on Earth Qualifier. A great turnout meant it was going to have to take a good score to win on the day and Bochet certainly delivered that with a fine run. Bochet will now compete in the Luckiest Ball on Earth Grand Final at Jumeirah Golf Estates on October 22 which will see the overall winner rub shoulders with stars of the European Challenge Tour at the Race to Dubai’s season-ending DP World Tour Championship.

The winning amateur will compete in the Rolex sponsored Pro-Am event two days before the golfing action kicks off on November 16.

Pros show their worth

Feron seals Summer Open The annual Summer Open was recently held for those brave enough to endure the hot conditions in the stroke play event. Cathy Feron still managed to post a very impressive net 66 and claim the title by six shots even with the prevailing wind blowing from the Arabian Sea.

The annual Beat the Pros tournament was another success this year as the Pros took the title with a sensational combined score of 16 under par. The day was full of member and guests that wanted to put the Pros in their place and even a mystery team of management aiming to upset the odds and have their claim to fame. It wasn’t to be though as Danny Jakubowski led his Pro team to glory and earning the respects of fellow member, colleagues, and guests.

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Rivollier comes out on top in Summer Stableford The Summer Saadiyat Stableford sponsored by Crowne Plaza, Abu Dhabi saw Blanca Rivollier take home the winners cheque after scoring an impressive 37 points. Jerome Martin and Oliver Zoeger finished tied third with the latter claiming Nearest the Pin the in the monthly event.

ARABIAN GOLF A B U DHA B I C ITY GOLF CLUB

Members Welcome Back a success The Members Welcome Back event at Saddiyat Beach Golf Club was a triumph with Theo Potgieter, Bob Whatley, Ping Li and Chris Ross coming out on top of the team event with a combined total of 14 under par. Grant Smith, Dong Ryung Kim, Leeann Suttles and Young Souck Choi came a close second after shooting 13 under.

Cathy Ferron and Tom Metzger took home the spoils in the Nearest to Pin in the Men and Ladies competition with Mick Fuerste and Lina Tyson both taking the prize for Longest Drive in their respective events.

Partidge claims Porsche Medal Ian Partridge claimed top spot in the Monthly Porsche Medal with the lowest gross score of 72 with Ping Li sealing the Ladies event with a net score of 73 to win on a count back. Mike Parks came Nearest the Pin in the Men’s event on hole four, with Stacey Ford winning the Ladies event on hole 12.

Miller delivers the goods in Golden Ball win

Salmeen heading for Luckiest Ball on Earth Grand Final

Ian Miller booked his spot in the Golden Ball Grand Final after an exceptional round saw him beat a field of 40 in the qualifier at Abu Dhabi City Golf Club.

Miller’s winning net score of 66 gives him the chance to compete for an even bigger prize in Golden Ball Grand Final which will take place at Al Hamra Golf Club on October 5.

The three winners of the Grand Final will win a once in a lifetime chance to rub shoulders with the European Challenge Tour pros in Ras Al Khaimah Golf Challenge Pro-Am which will be back at Al Hamra on October 24.

“I am delighted to have qualified in the Golden Ball Series, and look forward to teeing up at Al Hamra,” said a victorious Miller.

Chris Bentley won September’s Porsche Medal after an impressive round of golf saw him finish with the lowest gross score of 73. In the Ladies event, Young Souk Choi sealed her place at the top with a net score of 72. The event was doubled up with the Luckiest Ball on Earth qualifier which saw Khaled Salmeen come out tops, meaning he will now take part in the Grand Final on October 22. The winner of that the will secure a place in the Race to Dubai’s season ending finale at the DP World Tour Championships Pro-Am seeing amateurs line up the stars of the European Tour which will be held at Jumeriah Golf Estates on November 14.

YAS L INKS AB U DH AB I

Parks Shines at Yas Links Cugley Seals Lockheed Martin March Stableford The recent Lockheed Martin March Stableford saw Mike Parks come out top dog in the 0-12 Course Handicap with a score of 43 points beating his nearest competitor, Thomas Metzger by six points after he finished on 37. Jasim Thabet came out on top in the 13+ Course Handicap with a score of 34 points edging out Martyn Miller by just one point. In the Ladies event, it was Clare Cugley who was triumphant after a round of 32 points.

Charles Parks won the Category A title (Handicap 0-14) at Yas Links Summer Open at Yas Links Abu Dhabi as he finished the round with a notable 36 points, while Barry Griffin finished as runner-up with an impressive 35 points.

Li Ping conquered Category B (Handicap 15 and above) with a fantastic 39 points while John May secured his runner-up place with an impressive score of 37 points.

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SHA RJA H WA N DERERS GOLF CLUB

Hatcher cements Golden Ball Grand Final place ANDY Hatcher will be heading to Al Hamra on October 5 for the Golden Ball Grand Final after scoring 30 points in a terrific round whilst battling challenging conditions at Sharjah Wanderers Golf Club.

S H ARJAH GOL F AND S H O OT I N G C LU B

Organisers decided to reduce the event to a 12-hole competition due to the intense heat and humidity and it was Hatcher who came out on top pipping Doug Cameron to the win by one point in a thrilling day on the only sand golf course in Dubai.

A total of seventeen took to the field to try and win a place in this year’s Grand Final which will see amateurs battle it out in an attempt to book one of three places to play with the European Challenge Tour Pros in the Ras Al Khaimah 2017 Golf Challenge Pro-Am. “Having just returned from my summer leave I was certainly not expecting great things from my golf in my first tournament back on sand” said Hatcher.

“I am certainly looking forward to the Grand Final on the 5th October and hopefully my form will continue to hold up. I would like to thank all those involved in organising the Ras Al Khaimah 2017 Golf Challenge and let’s hope I can do Sharjah Wanderers proud in the Grand Final.”

SHA RJA H GO L F AND SHOOTI NG CLUB

Ramadas heading for Golden Ball Grand Final Sunny Ramadas sealed his place in the Golden Ball Grand Final in the Major Wager Golden Ball qualifier at Sharjah Golf and Shooting Club.

Ramadas came out on top after scoring 42 points, beating his nearest competitors by six points, with four players tied second on 36.

“I’m excited about the chance to represent SGSC at the Grand Final and really looking forward to

the challenge of playing Al Hamra,” said Ramadas.

“Thanks to the sponsors for providing us amateurs with a great opportunity to tee it up alongside the next generation of golfing stars.”

Ramadas and the rest of the qualifiers will compete in the Grand Final at Al Harma Golf Club on October 5 for a chance to go toe to toe with the stars of the Challenge Tour in the Ras Al Khaimah 2017 Golf Challenge Pro-Am.

Mousa whips things up in the Summer Stableford Mousa Shannah was victorious in an insurmountable fashion over the day’s field with staggering 51 Stableford points in the afternoon’s Orient Travel, Malaysia Truly Asia Monthly Summer Stableford at Sharjah Golf & Shooting Club. Mousa’s brother Hashem posted a very respectable 37 Stableford points to collect the runner-up spot with MY Cho taking home third place on a score of 36 points.

Picking up the spoils in the morning’s play was last month’s winner Ravi AE as he posted a steady 35 Stableford points, Mukti Rai picked up second place, while Brian Williams finished in third.

TOWE R L INKS GOL F C LU B

Lim clinches Golden Ball Grand Final place

Golfing Genius from George in the Midweek Centro George Liu claimed victory over the evening’s Midweek Centro at Sharjah Golf & Shooting Club with an impressive 19 Stableford points. Purna Sharma was three points adrift as he scored 16 to finish runner-up.

My Cho collects Luckiest Ball glory My Cho secured a spot at the Luckiest Ball Grand Final, which takes place on the Fire course at Jumeirah Golf Estates Sunday 22nd October, after winning the qualifying event at Sharjah Golf & shooting Club by a single point over Ravi AE as she scored 36 Stableford points.

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Michelle Lim has the chance to grab a place alongside Challenge Tour Pros after carding a net 69 in the Golden Ball qualifier at the Tower Links Golf Club.

The Grand Final which will be held at Al Harm Golf Club, gives amateurs a chance to pit their wits against Challenge Tour stars in the Ras Al Khaimah 2017 Golf Challenge Pro-Am. Lim won the Ladies event after Cavan Bickell also carded a net 69, but lost out on a countback.

“I never thought I had a chance of winning after some of the shots I made on the course today,” admitted a startled Lim after the event.

ARABIAN GOLF A L A IN E Q UE STR I AN, SHOOTI NG & GOLF CLUB

South African duo strike to seal Night Golf title

Harry Van Wyk & Anton Van Schalkwyk dovetailed to great effect to return a stableford score of 22 points and win the Night Golf at Al Ain Equestrian, Shooting & Golf Club on the Championship course.

Byron and Daniel Whittaker along with the pairing of Stuart Bell and Shahid Zaheer both posted scores of 21 points but a final six hole countback saw Byron and Daniel pip second place.

Members claim victory at the final hurdle The Annual Staff v Members event took place at Al Ain Al Ain Equestrian, Shooting & Golf Club, in a Pairs betterball matchplay format.

The Staff initially held a two-point advantage with only one remaining game on the course but Brian Cunniffe and Herbert Locke proved to be the heroes for the Members as the pair defeated staff Emil Lawrence and Keshav Padayachee 3-0 to claim victory by just a single point for the jubilant Members.

Bell victorious in Golden Ball qualifier

Flores and Lessard brave the afternoon heat for After Summer Open victory Mike Lessard & Jeff Flores won the AESGC After Summer Open at Al Ain Equestrian, Shooting & Golf Club in a Pairs Betterball Strokeplay format after an inward score of an incredible 29 shots on countback.

Richie Kelly & Jimmy Shanahan settled for second after initially equaling a net score of 64 with the winning pair.

Stuart Bell & Dan Whittaker just did enough to snatch third place with a better countback.

A L ZO R A H G O LF CLUB

Stuart Bell secured his place in the Golden Ball Grand Final after shooting a net 66 in the qualifying event at Al Ain Equestrian, Shooting and Golf Club.

An excellent turnout of 54 players took part in the event in a bid to qualify for the Golden Ball Grand Final which will be held at Al Hamra Golf club on October 5.

Bell now has the opportunity to win one of three places to line up with the stars of the European Challenge Tour in the Ras Al Khaimah Golf Challenge Pro-Am which will also take place at Al Hamra on October 24.

“I’m absolutely delighted to win the qualifying event for the Golden Ball Challenge,” Bell said.

“I’m really looking forward to representing Al Ain Equestrian, Shooting and Golf club in the Grand Final.”

DREAML AND GOL F C LU B , B AKU

Pederson in mix for Golden Ball glory Ove Pederson sealed her place in the Golden Ball Grand Final after scoring 33 stableford points and finishing runner up in the qualifier at Al Zorah Golf Course.

Zoe Butterworth struck an impressive 46 points to win the event but as she is unable to attend the Golden Ball Grand Final it will be Pederson who takes her place.

The series ending event which will be held at Al Harma on October 5, will see 20 qualifiers from across the region compete for one of three places to line up with the stars of the European Challenge Tour in the Ras Al Khaimah Golf Challenge Pro-Am which will also be held at Al Hamra Golf Course on October 24.

Socar Cape seal Azerbaijan Open and Golden Ball spot The Socar Cape team secured their place in the Golden Ball Grand Final after clinching the 2017 Azerbaijan Open at the Dreamland Golf Club.

The team consisted of: Tofiq Afandizada, Elman Rzayev, Nicolas Young and Steven Black. The

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Grand Final, which will be held at Al Harma Golf Club on October 5, gives the players a chance to compete with the Challenge Tour pros in the Ras Al Khaimah 2017 Golf Challenge Pro-Am, which will also be held at the same course later that month.

Raise Your Game!

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Membership validity until 31 December 2017.

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TRAVEL

BY ALEX GALLEMORE

ONLY 20 minutes’ drive from the Centurion Club is a hidden gem, tucked away on the outskirts of St Albans. Sopwell House, a dazzling white 18th century Georgian manor house stands proudly within an enchanting country estate.

Just a 20-minute train journey from London St Pancras, Sopwell House boasts 128 stylish guestrooms, 16 exclusive Mews Suites, 12 acres of beautiful gardens, two restaurants, an elegant cocktail lounge, a swimming pool and spa, 15 adaptable meeting rooms, plus five ground-floor banqueting rooms.

Sopwell House, with its oak-panelled walls, captures the atmosphere and olde world charm of its ancient heritage, with the modern facilities in ultimate luxurious living. The 128 newly refurbished guestrooms are impeccably designed in an elegant, quintessentially British style. Some guestrooms offer balconies overlooking the picturesque hotel grounds. The immaculate en-suite bathrooms all boast bespoke design vanity units and ESPA toiletries. The original stable blocks, adjacent to the hotel, have been beautifully converted into 16 exclusive Mews Suites surrounding a stunning botanical garden. An infinityedged hydrotherapy pool with ceramic detailing sparkles in the centre of the stunning bespoke garden. Accessible only via private gates The Mews provides optimum exclusivity. Some Mews Suites also have their own private courtyards with sunken private spa baths and dark wicker seating areas.

THE BRASSERIE: For more informal dining, The Brasserie presents an elegant, open-plan experience with an abundance of natural light, courtesy of the floor-to-ceiling glass frontage. The Brasserie serves an all-day buffet menu fusing British and Mediterranean cuisine. The soaring glass windows showcase views across the hotel’s picturesque grounds.

In the evening, the candlelit space serves dinner from an à la carte menu.

THE COCKTAIL BAR & LOUNGE: The Cocktail Bar boasts an ornate marble topped-bar accompanied by pale aqua blue bar stools. Authentic French doors at the side of the bar

Sopwell House

provide landscape views of the hotel’s beautiful front lawns.

Accessed via a towering archway, the adjacent Cocktail Lounge features a unique 3-metre wide fireplace. With its floor-toceiling integrated bookcase-wall the characterful, cozy room serves traditional Afternoon Tea throughout the day.

THE SPA: Naturally lit and spacious, the Spa has 14 treatment rooms, including one double treatment room, a 15-metre swimming pool, jacuzzi, sauna and steam room, fully equipped gymn dance and yoga studio, nail bar, plus a spa lounge and relaxation room.

There is also a tranquil seated terrace and spa garden.

Sopwell House is an outstanding luxury hotel and a flexible meeting, banqueting and wedding venue with conference rooms and kitchens to cater for all sizes of events, from small business meetings, to large wedding receptions for up to 280 people.

Best of Ancient and Modern

THE RESTAURANT: The 2AA Rosette restaurant combines British and European cuisine to achieve an eclectic à la carte menu using only seasonal and local produce.

The split-level space boasts striking pendant lighting and white linen tablecloths with deep maroon-coloured armchairs. The restaurant also has an extensive wine list.

For further information go to www.sopwellhouse.co.uk

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VISION

Building

Centurion Creating a championship golf course in London and a restaurant with its own Michelin Star chef isn’t a bad accomplishment for a former Dubai based PGA Professional.

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THE MAKING OF THE

CENTURION CLUB

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UILDING a championship golf club normally requires deep pockets and the dreams of billionaires. So if I told you Scott Evans, a former PGA professional from the early days of Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club in the UAE, has masterminded one of the most talked about golf clubs in the London area, you might be blown away, especially when you find out how he did it. In the early days of Dubai’s emergence, Evans soon learned that dreams could become a reality. The way HH Sheikh Mohammed Al Maktoum was transforming Dubai through the vision of his father Sheikh Rashid gave an understanding of a ‘can do’ attitude and that the dream of creating a championship course around London might become a reality.

Many questioned his decision to create such a club in the middle of a recession, but the belief was there and it never wavered through all the highs and lows. Evans saw an opportunity and he and his business partners Bert Pronk and Andre Hendriks made a play for a large area of land on the outskirts of St Albans, and in 2010 soon became theproud owners of 190 acres of undulating countryside interspersed with pine woodland. There was much to do, but with a shared vision, hard graft and endless determination, this canny Scotsman and his team have created what is now known as Centurion Club, and today has been heralded as one of the best courses in England.

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SCOTT EVANS

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Construction started on the course in 2010 and three years later the Centurion Club was open for play.

Home to award winning Michelin star chef Jeff Galvin and venue of the European Tour’s inaugural GolfSixes tournament.

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THE MAKING OF THE

CENTURION CLUB

WHEN budgets are tight a sound business plan is required and a membership model which proves attractive and flexible to the discerning customer, from there, Centurion built a strong following from its shareholders and members which continues to grow today.

As Evans mentioned, “The key to a successful project is not only the course or location but its people, you have nothing without people.”

The goodwill generated from its growing membership is unsurpassed.

It was fitting that the European Tour chose the Club to stage the revolutionary GolfSixes event earlier this year. Many critics were apprehensive about the format of the tournament and many had

Worldwide Golf: When did you first come to Dubai and what attracted you?

Scott Evans: I came to Dubai in 1992 to help open the Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club with Peter Downie and the rest of the Golf Team. It was an exciting time to be in Dubai at the start of its incredible journey.

WG: What did you take from your experience working in the golf industry in Dubai?

SE: Working with some great people, seeing the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Ruler of Dubai, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, experiencing the multi-cultural environment that Dubai has to offer.

One of those people was Bruce Nelson, the original General Manager of the Dubai Creek GC, who was instrumental in establishing the standards that have helped lift Dubai into a world class golfing destination.

Sadly Bruce died recently in Florida and will be greatly missed.

WG: At what point did you have the vision to open your own golf course?

SE: I think all of us frustrated golfers have an interest in course design or creating our own course, but it was a conversation I had with my father just before he passed away. We Scots never waste too many words. He merely said: “You are either going to talk about it, or do it.’’

WG: How did your involvement in creating the Centurion Club come about?

SE: You cannot take on projects as big as the Centurion Club on your own and I am fortunate to have a great team around me, including business partners Bert Pronk and Andre Hendriks, who have helped make the vision a reality.

Having been involved in the opening of some great clubs like Dubai Creek, Loch Lomond and Bearwood Lakes, you learn some of the pitfalls in creating new clubs.

The experience I gained was a great help in how we structured Centurion. It’s all working rather well and our founding shareholders and members are very supportive.

WG: What have been the key ingredients in creating the club?

SE: Firstly, you need the right location and vision; then the correct model, and finally a

never heard of the course. The event turned out to be one of the Tour’s success stories of the 2017 season and the Tour players came away wanting a regular, conventional Tour event at the club. I caught up with Scott during their recent pro-am which brought in high-flying amateurs from all around the world. I’ve no idea why I was invited to play, but it did give me a fascinating insight into how a determined and resourceful former Dubai PGA professional finally opened the doors to a golfing dream.

By

Alex Gallemore

good team to deliver the promise. The first question that has to be asked Is: “How are we going to make it profitable, and who is going to run it?”

The Club Manager/Director of Golf should be consulted before a spade goes in the ground. Unfortunately, this role is often ignored at the start of these projects, in favour of spending money on big name architects or over-elaborate clubhouses. A good golf man at the helm will save money!

WG: What were the toughest challenges and how did you overcome them?

SE:Planning is always a challenge, normally resulting in delays. Also weather and ground conditions, delivering on the cash flow and winning over the sceptics are all essential aspects of the project.

Once you start, there is no turning back.

You take one challenge at a time and through sheer grit and determination you keep going.

WG: Which holes were the most problematic to construct and why?

SE: Probably the first three holes. Delays in planning shortened the construction window and the grow-in period to allow us to open the course on schedule.

Timings were very tight. We seeded in October 2012 and opened the course on the 1st July 2013.

WG: The Centurion Club is in a truly remarkable location - What about its topography?

SE: The unique topography comes from a large amount of inert material imported from the building industry, which helped create a course full of movement and drama with great viewing on every hole.

WG: The course got great reviews for the highly successful GolfSixes. What’s next for the club and are there any changes required before you can host a conventional main Tour event?

SE: We are still in ongoing discussions with the European Tour so no announcements have been made just yet! We will always continue to improve the course and our practice facilities. It’s a basic continuation.

We also have another 97 acres of woodland available to us for further extentions to the course – subject to planning, of course.

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WG: Being accessible to the airports, M1 and M25 and central London are you looking at the high-end international market for members who travel to the UK frequently?

SE: Yes, we would certainly like to grow our International Membership and we are currently seeking planning permission for 10 bedrooms adjacent to the clubhouse.

Investing in the facilities is an ongoing progression as our membership grows.

Our International Membership is designed to be flexible and provide a club environment for the busy traveller.

WG: Would you look to open another course or get involved in another project?

SE: We are always looking for possible opportunities but our main focus is and will remain on further developments and improvements at the Centurion Club, adding new facilities for our members and guests.

WG: Do you think there’s a gap in the Dubai market for a very high-end private members club?

SE: Given Dubai’s continued growth, which looks set to continue well beyond EXPO 2020, there could well be another opportunity to create something really special.

WG: You still have strong links with Dubai and you’re taking your Pro-Am series to Dubai in November but how has the place changed with regards to golf?

SE: It is terrific to host a Pro-Am in Dubai with the Trump International and Jumeirah Golf Estates and have so many old friends supporting us. Dubai is still evolving and growing all the time and with so many golf courses being added over the years, it has become one of the finest golfing destinations in the world.

WG: With all the things you have achieved in creating the Centurion Club, what memory gives you the most pride?

SE: Watching my 12-year-old son, Lewis, hit the opening tee shot a good 200 yards down the middle in front of several hundred friends and family and also watching all our team grow in confidence at the success of GolfSixes. Given that we only had 12 weeks’ notice, they did an outstanding job.

FIVE THINGS

5 THINGS YOU DON’T KNOW ABOUT ME… FELIPE AGUILAR AGE:

42 | FROM: Valdivia, Chile | TURNED PROFESSIONAL: 1999 | PROFESSIONAL TOUR WINS: 4

1

SUPERSTITION

I usually keep one tee, one pitch mark and one coin in my pocket every time I play golf. I never carry anything more than that.

It’s sort of a superstition for me.

BUILDER

If I wasn’t a golfer, I would have probably been a builder because I love construction and everything involved in that area.

4

BAD BOY

I was very naughty when I was at school but respectful to my teachers which helped me get away with some things that I should have been harshly punished for.

3

IDEAL DAY

FOOTY MAD

When I go back to Chile I love to go out on my bike early in the morning, come back and have a few chilled beers and then a barbeque.

That’s a perfect day off in my eyes.

I played football as a forward for my high school in the States and actually got a call up for the All States team so that was a decent standard. I even got offered a scholarship to play football for a university in the States but I pursued golf instead.

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5

GRAPES

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